tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75624831168778630372024-03-13T14:15:55.627-04:00Food and LoathingFood and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-29265509944114777692013-09-02T22:38:00.000-04:002013-09-02T22:38:50.765-04:00Pei Wei: Pronounced "Yum""Mom, I don't think it's pronounced 'pee wee'," said Son of Hubmeister, chuckling at the dinner table as I launched into an account of my recent experiences at my new favorite chain, Pei Wei Asian Diner. <br />
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I'm glad that kid was home on summer break to set me straight (Don't you hate it when your kids correct you and they're right?). So, it's pronounced ''pay way," but however you say it, this place shines in the realm of "fast casual" eateries. <br />
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I rarely review chain restaurants because I avoid their contrived atmospheres and formulaic food, but Pei Wei has ensnared me with its fresh flavors and made-to-order stir-fry dishes. A scaled-down offshoot of P.F. Chang's, Pei Weis are few and far between in Tampa, with only two locations, both on Dale Mabry Highway, one in Palma Ceia and the other in Carrollwood. I've never noticed either one and haven't tried them yet, either. The store I have experienced is the lone Pei Wei location in Sarasota, off University Parkway in the shopping center on Cooper Creek Boulevard near I-75. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PhVVDBQqjss/Uhp-bOiZFRI/AAAAAAAAAkY/zMdg4Yb1h3w/s1600/pei+wei+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PhVVDBQqjss/Uhp-bOiZFRI/AAAAAAAAAkY/zMdg4Yb1h3w/s400/pei+wei+4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Things are "wok-ing" in the open kitchen. (Good things.)</td></tr>
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We stumbled upon this spot after working up a hunger on a grocery run to Sarasota's Trader Joe's, then on to Total Wine & More, which is only a storefront away from Pei Wei in an expansive shopping complex.<br />
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Inside, a brightly lit menu board stopped us in our tracks as we made our way to the service counter where we ordered, paid and were handed a number to place on our table. Drinks are self-service and food runners deliver meals to each table, which might take the form of a booth, a high-top, a standard table or the diner counter overlooking the open kitchen. You seat yourself, so take your pick. <br />
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The contemporary décor features warm, earthy colors and the setup is inviting for those dining alone. Other reviewers have complained of deafening noise levels when the place gets busy, but neither of my visits left my ears ringing.<br />
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Unlike most Asian restaurants, the menu won't overwhelm you with mind-numbing choices, but a reasonable number of appetizers, salads and entrees is available. On our first visit we tried the Pei Wei Spicy Chicken Salad and Mongolian Beef. The salad ($7.75) was large and made a lovely presentation, with seared chicken, crisp lettuces, Napa cabbage, carrots, cukes, snap peas, scallions, rice sticks and tomatoes, all finely chopped and tossed with a light lime vinaigrette. I won't be trying to mimic the dressing at home, but this salad was a fresh-tasting, healthful option.<br />
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Hubmeister went for the Mongolian Beef, which the counter person said was a popular choice. No wonder. It was so tasty that we both ordered it on our return visit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9uQojvYspKo/Uhp-PQ35cbI/AAAAAAAAAkE/SM_qzOeQCrY/s1600/pei+wei+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9uQojvYspKo/Uhp-PQ35cbI/AAAAAAAAAkE/SM_qzOeQCrY/s400/pei+wei+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A delectable dish: Mongolian Beef and Brown Rice</td></tr>
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The beef had an appealing and addictive crispness, and the sweet garlic-infused sauce, which also enveloped white mushrooms and scallions, was downright delicious. It seems this dish is a direct descendent of P.F. Chang's version but a heck of a lot cheaper ($8.95). We both got brown rice, which I normally pass on due to its weird texture, but I will always order it at Pei Wei. It was fluffy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BPuXP6URRnc/Uhp-UV0xreI/AAAAAAAAAkM/IH0V5XIFSXM/s1600/pei+wei+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BPuXP6URRnc/Uhp-UV0xreI/AAAAAAAAAkM/IH0V5XIFSXM/s400/pei+wei+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand-rolled egg rolls and a lightly spiced dipping sauce</td></tr>
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We also tried the egg rolls ($3.95 for 2), which were stuffed with pork and veggies and did not appear to be out of the Sam's Club frozen food section. You can actually see pieces of pork in them. They were accompanied by a semi-spicy dipping sauce that I loved. Did I detect a trace of peanut butter in it?<br />
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Here's what else I loved: The food arrived steaming hot, and over at the self-service area was a shelf packed with spices for added five-alarm power. The iced teas were a step up from the generic restaurant versions, although Hubs didn't care for the chai or the other Asian tea (that I can't remember) that was offered. I had the chai and I liked it a lot.<br />
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Here's what we didn't like: There was one bathroom for each gender, as in, one toilet. If that one toilet is occupied, you need to watch for the door to open and make a beeline for it when it's available or you'll stand outside waiting in the dining room. Think: airplane routine.<br />
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Though it'll be hard to break away from the Mongolian Beef, on my next trip to Pei Wei I know I'll be trying the spicy Korean Steak Lettuce Wraps. Yum!<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Solid link in a chain<br />
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<a href="http://www.peiwei.com/menu/menu.aspx?menu=s&sid=0215">http://www.peiwei.com/menu/menu.aspx?menu=s&sid=0215</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1483358/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/University-Park/Pei-Wei-Asian-Diner-Sarasota"><img alt="Pei Wei Asian Diner on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1483358/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-71270799100181656402013-07-29T19:38:00.000-04:002013-07-29T19:46:14.564-04:00Keegan's: Not Flavor TownWhile Sister Foodie was visiting last week during her Summer Couch-surfing Tour of 2013, we ventured to the beach to get some soft-shell crabs at Keegan's Seafood Grille. The few meals I've had at this relaxed seafood standby in Indian Rocks Beach have left a good taste in my mouth (heh..heh). Too bad this visit had to be the exception.<br />
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On a hot and sunny beach day, we entered the weathered, nautical-themed seaside dive that shares a shopping plaza with a salon and a few other businesses. The odor of bleach permeated the air as we sat ourselves in an empty restaurant at the height of lunch hour. I'm glad the place was clean, but I can do without the chlorine vapor at mealtime. Save for a couple of other tables, we were the lone diners. Perplexing. I've always been wait-listed here.<br />
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My usual order is the soft-shell crab dinner, which features two fried soft crabs, coleslaw and corn. A seriously reasonable $15.99, the crabs are decent size, carry a light crust and, upon the initial chomp, produce the requisite squirt of crabby nectar. Although I usually sauté them in butter after a dredge in Old Bay-seasoned flour, I don't mind a deep-fried soft crab every now and then. Much to my disappointment, Keegan's had 86'd the soft crabs the day of our lunch visit due to a sellout the previous evening.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes fans, hanging on the wall is a poster of Guy "Never Met a Dish I Didn't Like " Fieri</td></tr>
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As I tried to erase the image of Guy Fieri grinning -- creepily -- at me from the wall opposite our table, I perused the menu in search of Plan B. With that autographed picture threatening to ruin my appetite, I debated between the blackened grouper sandwich (a favorite of Son of Hubs) or the grouper cheek po' boy (on the specials list). I got neither. Sister and I decided to share an appetizer of fried grouper bites, a plate of steamed shrimp and an order of mussels.<br />
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Served with lifeless tartar sauce overwhelmed by mayo, the fried grouper bites were piping hot, moist and tender but the batter was just plain bland. Grouper may be a great fish but it still needs a smack of seasoning. A slice of lemon and a scoop of mayo aren't going to tickle any taste buds. A missed opportunity. <br />
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As Sister tossed the mussel shells aside, she shook her head at the tasteless, watery broth in which the plump Prince Edward Island mollusks were swimming. Served with a big hunk of garlic bread intended for a soak in the shellfish pool, the mussel dish failed to bring forth any dipping motion from Foodie's hand. Where, oh where, was the white wine, shallots, butter and garlic bath that normally enriches a bowl of steamed mussels? Those ingredients may have been in the kitchen but they weren't enhancing this dish. Neither was the cup of melted butter in the bull's-eye of the plate (above).<br />
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The steamed shrimp were served hot (as ordered) but were led down the same ho-hum path. Although fairly large and fresh, the shrimp needed a flavor boost. True to their menu description, they had only a touch of seasoning. They would have been so much better with a wallop of Old Bay followed by a steam bath in beer, but the saving grace was the cocktail sauce, which packed some horseradish punch.<br />
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We also got a side of french fries, which did not deviate from the emerging pattern of acceptable but uninspired cooking.<br />
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Service was friendly and I loved the fact that our server didn't rush us to order entrees when we requested the appetizer and a couple of beers. She knew we were there to relax. Then again, only a handful of folks were in the place, so why would she care how long we lingered?<br />
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Keegan's is a reasonably priced and hospitable place that serves fresh seafood, but it is in no way Flavor Town USA. By the way, if my research is correct, Guy "Donkey Sauce" Fieri filmed his "Triple D" segment here several years ago before the restaurant changed ownership.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Needs seasoning.<br />
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<a href="http://www.keegansseafood.com/">http://www.keegansseafood.com</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/342866/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Indian-Rocks-Indian-Shores/Keegans-Seafood-Grille-Indian-Rocks-Beach"><img alt="Keegan's Seafood Grille on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/342866/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-78087782791989622972013-07-21T18:03:00.000-04:002013-09-02T21:36:19.136-04:00Piquant Has Promise<br />
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When you hear the word "piquant" do you automatically think "cronut?" Around these parts you'd think piquant meant something other than its Webster's definition of "agreeably stimulating to the palate," but I guess a cronut might fit that bill. I wouldn't know because I've been to Piquant twice and they didn't have any samples of the half-donut, half-croissant creations. Due to the current cronut craze, you must now pre-order them. <br />
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Hats off to Piquant's pastry chef/co-owner for putting this place on the map by frying up dough until he supposedly replicated the latest food fad that's captivated New York's sweet freaks. I look forward to snapping one up when the furor dies down. <br />
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In the meantime, I've broken bread at this spot for breakfast and lunch and, true to its proper dictionary definition, it's quite pleasant -- but not without issues. Hubs and I cruised down to Hyde Park Village for a late breakfast on the 4th of July. As always, the Old Hyde Park shopping area was a ghost town -- totally inexcusable for this charming, historic section of Tampa. By the way, Williams-Sonoma has closed, joining the numerous stores and restaurants that have packed up their Hyde Park inventory and run for the hills.<br />
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Speaking of restaurants that bravely gave it a go in Old Hyde Park, if you ever ate at Restaurant BT or Sophie's, you'll recognize the Piquant space. The bakery case anchors the same place it occupied at Sophie's, and sits where that eye-popping bar stood at BT's. A chalkboard menu adorns the wall behind the case.<br />
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A conversation area at the far end of the restaurant encourages coffee drinkers to lounge on a sofa and hang out, while a high-backed, padded black banquette accommodates diners and helps break up the large dining space that's replete with black tables and clear acrylic bistro chairs. French tunes complement the modern décor and round out the Parisian mood. If a controlled climate isn't your thing, al fresco dining also is an option on a spacious, covered patio that fronts the meandering, pedestrian-friendly Snow Avenue.<br />
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Since it was a holiday, Piquant had extended their hours for breakfast service, so Hubs ordered an omelet and I got a fried egg, bacon and cheese baguette. We both had coffee and split an almond croissant. A patisserie and café, Piquant features a bakery case full of tarts, cakes, croissants and other sweet temptations. My biggest complaint about bakeries is that everything typically looks great but tastes past its prime. I'm uncertain whether age was the case with the almond croissant or whether the construction simply lacked the layers of flake and fluff that make eating a truly great croissant a memorable experience. This one was doughy but had a nice exterior almond glaze.<br />
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That's the only less-than-sweet thing I have to say about our breakfast. The Buddy Brew French roast coffee was excellent and the server kept it coming. Hubs special-requested an egg-white omelet, a dish Hubster thought noteworthy because egg-white omelets usually are tasteless; he raved about this one containing smoked Gouda cheese and Canadian bacon.<br />
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On my side of the table, thick and flavorful Applewood smoked bacon, aged Cheddar cheese and an over-hard fried egg were piled on a crunchy, crusty baguette, making one savory and satisfying breakfast sandwich. <br />
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Neither the sandwich nor the omelet was accompanied by a side dish or garnish, so don't expect home fries, toast, a slice of orange or even a sprig of parsley to appear on your plate. I realize food cost is a major concern but a little garnish would go a long way. Sides exist but they're all a la carte.<br />
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Because we thoroughly enjoyed our breakfast, I didn't have any difficulty persuading the Hubs to return for lunch -- and I even took a few photos!<br />
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Hubs had an "oops" moment when he bit into the chicken salad on croissant (above) and discovered diced onions or shallots. He balks at the onion family in raw form and was surprised to find it in chicken salad. Just as he does when I try to sneak onions in at home, he poked and prodded around them; otherwise, he gave good marks to the smoked chicken salad with apple, brie and avocado. He said the croissant itself was dense and lacked freshness. The thin-cut french fries, on the other hand, were hot, crispy and addictive. <br />
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I tried the <em>puree</em> <em>du</em> <em>potage</em> <em>et lardon</em> (potato and bacon soup), which was super thick, laden with heavy cream, pureed potato and chunks of bacon. It was too heavy and somewhat underseasoned for my taste.<br />
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Knowing a pastry chef was in the house, I bypassed the salads and sandwiches on the menu and zoomed in on the quiche simply to sample the crust. Served a bit warmer than room temperature, the bacon and Gruyere quiche was remarkable in texture and flavor. The crust was buttery and flaky, not the least bit soggy from the tender custard. Similar to the breakfast presentations, except for a zigzag of balsamic syrup, the quiche stood alone, but priced at $5 for a substantial slice, it's an incredible bargain.<br />
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One last comment about lunch: The coffee was not hot. When refilled, it still was not hot. When replaced with a fresh cup because it was tepid, it still was not hot! At $2.95 a cup, you'd best get that coffee hot. I'd hate to see this place packing up their cronuts. <br />
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With a few tweaks and the cronut craze getting people in the door, Piquant could be the eatery that succeeds where others have faltered. I hope so. The staff is eager to please and it's obvious that they are making the effort. <br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: A few bumps but worth a visit.<br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1720375/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Hyde-Park/Piquant-Tampa"><img alt="Piquant on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1720375/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-12697336846974750772013-07-18T01:28:00.000-04:002013-07-18T01:28:01.047-04:00Gastrogrub: Tampa TrifectaAs our friends and relatives will attest, Hubmeister and I have been known to darken the door of a pub or two. In fact, soaking up good adult beverages in fun, interesting places ranks high on our list of great excuses not to do yard work. It's an added bonus if the drinking establishment serves decent food. Unfortunately, bar food typically is -- how do I put this delicately -- crap. With the onset of the gastropub explosion a few years back, that tendency thankfully has started to change. Even here!<br />
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Before I get to my reviews, though, I would like to address a disturbing trend and put it out there that, unlike a growing number of Tampa food bloggers, I do not blog for food (or drink). <em>Food</em> <em>and</em> <em>Loathing</em> <em>in</em> <em>Tampa</em> <em>Bay</em> features unbiased opinion based on a typical dining experience. I do not attend manufactured blogger events or accept free meals in exchange for restaurant reviews. Nice try with those invitations, however. <br />
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Now that you know my stance on the bribing-the-blogger phenomenon, without further ado I present a few local watering holes where Hubs and I, as always, showed up anonymously and used our own cash to grab a bite and enjoy a few cold ones.<br />
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<strong>New World Brewery - Ybor</strong><br />
Nestled behind a wall of leafy green foliage, this cool spot sits near the corner of E. 8th Avenue and N. 13th Street in Ybor City. On a cool spring day we strolled through an inviting outdoor beer garden and into a bar filled with old-world ambience. The atmosphere is pub-like, with brick walls, a dark-wood bar and distressed flooring.<br />
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New World runs a weekday barbecue buffet from 11 a.m. till 3 p.m. Sold by weight, you can load up on meat that is smoked on site, along with an array of barbecue-type sides. The Hubster and I loathe buffets of any kind, mainly because we are germaphobes but also because we can't stand seeing food sitting comatose under lights. <br />
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We opted for something straight from the kitchen -- away from the sneezing, finger-licking masses -- and got a stone-seared 14-inch pizza that was pretty darned good. The crust had a satisfying bite and lived up to its "super thin" menu description. A mozzarella/Romano cheese blend was a nice change of pace from a standard mozzarella-topped pie, but if you fancy trying different pizza bases and toppings, this place offers several creative options, from a black bean base with Italian sausage, green pepper and onion to a white-sauce pizza topped with artichoke, smoked chicken and feta cheese. Recipe wizards also can come up with their own concoctions, but New World's suggestions look good to me.<br />
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The bar features a ton of draft and bottled beer and the bartenders are happy to suggest a brew to suit your taste. There's a fully loaded jukebox to liven things up when a live band isn't performing. Check the website to see who's lined up on the calendar.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: A bar find and a fine bar.<br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/343623/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/New-World-Brewery-Ybor-City"><img alt="New World Brewery on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/343623/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>Independent Bar & Cafe - Seminole Heights</strong><br />
This converted gas station/garage on Florida Avenue sits next to Cappy's Pizza in Seminole Heights. Hubs and I were puzzled when we first went inside because you can sit anywhere you want but, similar to pubs in England, it's up to you to approach the bar and order. You also place food orders at the bar and when the dish is ready, somebody runs it to your table. <br />
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The evening we checked it out, the weather was nice and most people were imbibing outside, enjoying the sights and sounds of picturesque Florida Avenue. (Come on, you know that's funny!) Okay, maybe not. Anyway, we chose an inside spot and pretended we weren't on Florida Avenue.<br />
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If you plan to order more than one small plate, sit at a normal table. Only thing is, I don't think they have one. Maybe outside. The few inside tables are Munchkin-level low to the ground. What this establishment does feature are plenty of industrial-looking wood-block drink stands that don't provide enough room for more than a couple of drinks, much less plates of food. Eventually we moved from an uncomfortable wooden bench along a wall to an uncomfortable child-sized table. <br />
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Overall, the interior vibe beckons the 20-something hipster: one who enjoys alternative music and sleeps soundly on a futon. Read: Hubmeister and I are getting old.<br />
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Our aging butts aside, nobody inside was ordering food, but, hey, we felt compelled to try a few things. Hubman bellied up to the bar and ordered German pretzels, a bratwurst and sauerkraut plate, and a grilled cheese sandwich. Grilled cheese sandwich, you snobbishly ask? <em>Mais</em> <em>oui</em>, <em>mes</em> <em>amis!</em> This is the Indie Grilled Cheese, not "cheese food" smashed between squares of greasy grilled white bread.<br />
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The Indie combines Gouda cheese with pears that have been sautéed with honey and spices. This lovely combo, served on rye and pressed to oozing opulence, is served with a tasty salad of field greens, blue cheese, walnuts and grapes, all splashed with a poppy seed vinaigrette.<br />
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The pretzel is standard fare and comes with a sweet German mustard. As for the bratwurst, Hubs downed his beer-infused link in short order. (Hint: Spring for a second sausage if you have any semblance of an appetite.) The dish is served in trendy "deconstructed" fashion, with the grilled sausage, sauerkraut, beer onion sauce and toast points each staking its claim to the plate.<br />
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But wait, toast points and bratwurst? The Germans are laughing. In any case, it was all good, especially the beer sauce. <br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Neighborhood hangout with amped-up food and drink.<br />
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<strong><a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1502254/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Seminole-Heights/Independent-Bar-Cafe-Tampa"><img alt="Independent Bar & Cafe on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1502254/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a></strong><br />
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<strong>Cigar City Brewpub - Carrollwood</strong><br />
Although it's more restaurant than pub, Cigar City seems to fit into this bar-hopping post. Must be the vats of beer looming within a chicharron's throw from the bar. Be that as it may, the mood created by those industrial tanks does nothing for me. They remind me of the old Hops restaurants that met their demise a couple of decades ago, when I thought dining among enormous stainless steel containers was cool. <br />
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So we noted the huge vessels near the front door and were shown to a booth where we joined the Mississippi Maven and her beer-lovin' Mississippi Man. We promptly ordered pints of Cigar City brew, appetizers of chicharrons and Cuban egg rolls, and burgers. <br />
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While enjoying the mighty fine beer, I absorbed the former TGI Friday's space: bar on one side, a couple of rectangular-shaped dining areas on the other and additional table seating on an outside patio. The view: dismal parking lot, garden-variety strip center and endless traffic on Dale Mabry Highway. Maybe this <em>is</em> Hops! Nope, Hops didn't have beer can chandeliers. <br />
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Cigar City has gotten some mixed reviews, with critics lauding the food and many everyday diners panning it. Here's what Hubs and I thought: The chicharrons, a.k.a. deep-fried nuggets of pig skin, were oversalted. Hubs is now chiming in that he has had them in Miami where they were far superior because these, he complains, were not crispy enough. After all, nobody wants flabby skin. The rest of us have no frame of reference so you have to trust Hubster, who spent many a business trip pigging out in Miami.<br />
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The egg rolls were more to my liking. Picture a large egg roll, composed of Cuban sandwich ingredients, that's cut in half, providing two people with a normal-sized bite. Then imagine those fried Cuban morsels of pork, ham, salami, cheese and pickles diving into a mustard dipping sauce. How can one go wrong with these? Well, one can't. <br />
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As much as I hate restaurant groupthink, all of us ordered the house burger, which is made from grass-fed beef. Mine was cooked to a perfect medium, which is no small feat when I'm manning the grill at home. I find burgers really hard to get right, so I appreciate one that's perfectly cooked. A-plus on that score. The flavor profile was interesting, meaning I liked it, ate it, but wouldn't repeat it. Served on a brioche bun, the burger included plantains, bacon, sofrito (a seasoning of pureed tomatoes, peppers, garlic, onion and cilantro) and roasted garlic aioli. The sweetness of the plantains put me off somewhat. Asked if we wanted more garlic aioli, I should have said yes. It would have counteracted that sweetness and provided additional moisture too. <br />
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Accompanying the burgers were malanga chips. Popular in Cuba, malanga is a tropical root that resembles a sweet potato. I liked the chips, but I wouldn't make a return trip for them. <br />
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Our server was attentive and dutifully explained the beer offerings, the restaurant's theme of adhering to Tampa's cultural roots, and the Spanish- and Cuban-inspired menu. He inquired if we wanted dessert and we declined, or at least declined what most people would consider dessert. As we were about to leave the table, the Maven's Man hesitated, contemplated and finally caved. In anticipation, we waited for his request...a piece of flourless chocolate cake or perhaps bread pudding du jour? Ah, we should have known, he got another round of Cigar City Jai Alai IPA. Now that's what I call a sweet finish.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: The beer is the star.<br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1741466/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Carrollwood/Cigar-City-Brewpub-Restaurant-Tampa"><img alt="Cigar City Brewpub Restaurant on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1741466/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-44291917529598606052013-03-29T12:34:00.000-04:002013-04-03T10:15:51.993-04:00Divinely Inspired: Mazzaro'sForgive this lengthy post, but Mazzaro's is the only place in the Tampa Bay area that gets me as fired up about food as my favorite stomping grounds in Atlanta. Could it be the hustle and bustle, the selection of imported wines, cheeses and meats, and the freshly prepared breads and pastries? Perhaps it's the handmade pasta or mozzarella cheese that's so fresh it's still warm when you put it into your basket. How about the old guy who serenades diners on the patio while strumming Italian tunes? Or the inexplicable church-sized statuary, pope photos and saint tributes adorning the display of tea? Look above the coffee bar and there's the Infant of Prague positioned next to a photo of the Mona Lisa. Oh yes, things definitely are out of this world at Mazzaro's!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qg2nHeC_QNk/UVWneSG8mcI/AAAAAAAAAgY/BdlCELO0ZIc/s1600/mazzaro2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qg2nHeC_QNk/UVWneSG8mcI/AAAAAAAAAgY/BdlCELO0ZIc/s400/mazzaro2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's all good at Mazzaro's.</td></tr>
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I could kick myself for not checking out Mazzaro's sooner. My first trip to this colorful Italian market took place in November and I think I have made the 45-minute drive to St. Pete every week since. I'll be darned if I can figure out the joint, though. It must have been a church at some point, but I am having a hard time getting an answer to that question. A cashier told us that the owner simply designed it to look like a church. Really? <br />
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I am confounded further by the warehouse of statuary adjacent to the property (that in some way seems to be linked to Mazzaro's) and by the cute, hand-painted minicars in the vast parking lot, where on several occasions I have seen customers posing for photos. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--FfSZHMKiYc/UVWnxFE7nPI/AAAAAAAAAgk/KyizJnINKTI/s1600/mazzaro3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--FfSZHMKiYc/UVWnxFE7nPI/AAAAAAAAAgk/KyizJnINKTI/s400/mazzaro3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'd like a pig and some horns on my car.</td></tr>
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This is one intriguing business -- and one popular attraction! It almost always has a crowd. As a lady remarked to me one Saturday as we waited for our sandwiches in a line of about 50 people, <strong>"This is not a place you want to go when you're in a cranky mood."</strong><br />
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With that sage advice in mind, join me as I elbow my way past everyone at the deli counter to snag a number, which is essential for placing an order. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QQbWTePdN4/UVWo4hNo9KI/AAAAAAAAAgs/AouwTauwuQc/s1600/mazzaro1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QQbWTePdN4/UVWo4hNo9KI/AAAAAAAAAgs/AouwTauwuQc/s400/mazzaro1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sandwich counter - Put on your Big City panties and assert yourself!</td></tr>
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The ordering process doesn't take long, so have an idea of what you want by surveying the menu boards hanging high on the wall behind the deli cases. Keep your number handy because now you simply wait for them to holler when your food is ready. This can take several minutes. Remember, kids, patience is a virtue!<br />
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Once you have your precious meal in hand, a few sit-down options present themselves: You can head to the breezy, covered patio; perch yourself on a stool at the coffee bar if you're lucky enough to land a seat; or picnic on the grounds at one of several outside tables. A few drink fridges positioned throughout the store provide ample choices of soft drinks, beer or a million other beverages to accompany your meal. Feel like a little vino? Stop in the wine room and an expert will suggest a bottle from an impressive, fairly priced selection. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-birL6zn0sGI/UVWuk7qrwSI/AAAAAAAAAhk/QA0jz3p09Nw/s1600/mazzaro11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-birL6zn0sGI/UVWuk7qrwSI/AAAAAAAAAhk/QA0jz3p09Nw/s320/mazzaro11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patio dining - Pay at the outside register before taking a seat.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmk4jz8phfc/UVWqZP_gUtI/AAAAAAAAAg0/5mWnw7eqIao/s1600/mazzaro9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmk4jz8phfc/UVWqZP_gUtI/AAAAAAAAAg0/5mWnw7eqIao/s320/mazzaro9.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statuary abounds.</td></tr>
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Choose from an assortment of salads at the deli counter and from knock-your-socks-off cookies, homemade gelato, cakes and pastries at the bakery counter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Svirn817op4/UVWrUkHr_3I/AAAAAAAAAg8/ihTjbMUOGFE/s1600/mazzaro6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Svirn817op4/UVWrUkHr_3I/AAAAAAAAAg8/ihTjbMUOGFE/s400/mazzaro6.JPG" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bakery counter - Get the Kalamata Olive Bread if they have it.<br />
(They only make it three times a week.) </td></tr>
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Believe me, though, if you're getting a sandwich you won't need much else. Portions here also fall into the other-worldly category.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oI8LXAr97hE/UVWsA8Avx0I/AAAAAAAAAhE/BA80tVrxt1U/s1600/mazzaro4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oI8LXAr97hE/UVWsA8Avx0I/AAAAAAAAAhE/BA80tVrxt1U/s400/mazzaro4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh boy! A Hot Italian - Hard for this red-blooded American girl to resist.</td></tr>
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High on my list of favorite sandwiches are the Hot Italian, the Muffuletta and the Reuben. The Hot Italian was recommended to me by an elderly patron as I sat at the coffee bar savoring a pumpkin napoleon last fall. A grilled Italian sub roll stuffed with charred ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion and banana peppers, the Hot Italian is doused with a spicy Italian dressing, and it is one hot mess. The bread gets soaked, but the roll has enough structure to withstand the deluge of sauce. I have never had anything like this 10-napkin extravaganza. Warning: Do not try eating this while driving!<br />
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The Muffuletta features the same terrific cold cuts but with the addition of mortadella, onion and the traditional layer of olive salad. Roasted red peppers are thrown in for good measure. All components are exceptional and deliciously salty.<br />
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Beautifully grilled, the Reuben contains the usual suspects: sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, corned beef and thousand island dressing. They stack it to the gills, enough so that when I ordered, the lady at the counter asked if I was splitting it with someone. Ha! They'd have to fight me for it! Reubens can be too dry or too wet, too full of dressing or too greasy, too salty or too fatty, but not this one. This Reuben fires on all cylinders.<br />
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The Food and Loathing family also has sampled the Meatball Sub and Italian Sausage and Peppers Sub.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NptPBGPeeo/UVWspdFgcQI/AAAAAAAAAhU/PVMHhKWCe-E/s1600/mazzaro8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NptPBGPeeo/UVWspdFgcQI/AAAAAAAAAhU/PVMHhKWCe-E/s400/mazzaro8.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meatball - Have your Tide stain stick handy.</td></tr>
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Hubmeister consumed what had to have been an entire pound of ground meat, but it was more like smashed meatballs because nothing in that sub resembled a sphere. The sandwich was topped with melted provolone. Through a big, saucy smile, he said it was awesome.<br />
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I would have liked some of that red sauce on my Sausage and Peppers Sub because it was rather lackluster. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cprPmKl5EBY/UVWtCYzILZI/AAAAAAAAAhc/FlJtvW14PUs/s1600/mazzaro7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cprPmKl5EBY/UVWtCYzILZI/AAAAAAAAAhc/FlJtvW14PUs/s400/mazzaro7.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sausage and Peppers - Needs sauced.</td></tr>
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The sausage was tasty but the sub needed some sauce to help fuse together all of the sandwich elements. Without that gravy, it's just peppers, onions, sausage, cheese and bread. It needs some juice. From my home cooking experience, I assure you that Mazzaro's hot sausage goes well with red sauce and makes one heck of a lasagna ingredient.<br />
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The Hubster has also demolished the Chicken Parmesan Sub, which proved more manageable than its meatball sibling.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OG1_2NDzROE/UVWsg8fWVkI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/YUqPyI2sBgQ/s1600/mazzaro5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OG1_2NDzROE/UVWsg8fWVkI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/YUqPyI2sBgQ/s400/mazzaro5.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Parm - So "parmed" good.</td></tr>
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The moist chicken breast was breaded and fried, topped with red sauce and provolone and served on a soft hoagie roll. <br />
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You might think that food of this quality would put a dent in your wallet, but you'd be wrong. Most sandwiches hover around $5. <br />
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A couple of years ago I wrote a post about distinctive places I'd miss if I moved from Tampa. Mazzaro's, you're numero uno!<br />
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Note: Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday is a madhouse and hours are 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. On Sunday, Mass is being said over by the tea, so the store is closed. Just kidding! But the store <em>is</em> closed Sunday. <br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: A godsend.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mazzarosmarket.com/Home/tabid/38/Default.aspx">http://www.mazzarosmarket.com/Home/tabid/38/Default.aspx</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/343377/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Kenwood/Mazzaros-Italian-Market-St-Petersburg"><img alt="Mazzaro's Italian Market on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/343377/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-60845619426854147562013-01-26T21:58:00.000-05:002013-01-26T21:58:53.442-05:00Get Out of Town: Lunch on LimogesFeel like getting out of Dodge for a day? Head to Dade City. With its quaint courthouse square, hilly green countryside and Mayberry-esque downtown, you'll think you left the state. But don't expect much more than a change of scenery and lots of antique stores. Go with the mindset of spending a lazy afternoon browsing through junk from decades past and enjoying a relaxed meal at Williams Lunch on Limoges, a Southern Living magazine favorite located across from the historic Pasco County Courthouse.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Williams Lunch on Limoges. Part retail, part restaurant. Works for them!</td></tr>
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I have been to Lunch on Limoges several times and it's always enjoyable. The theme is straightforward Southern fare -- big on calories and buttery flavor -- served by "seasoned" waitresses wearing uniforms reminiscent of Flo's from the '70s TV show "Alice." These gals can hustle, and they mean business, as in "I'm not here to chat it up or put up with a lot of nonsense, but I'll be polite and efficient." You go, Granny!<br />
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The atmosphere is one you won't find every day, unless you hang out in eateries that share space with retail stores. This restaurant cohabitates with a store that is part gift shop, part fashion boutique. A smattering of colorfully covered dining tables are intermingled with the merchandise. <br />
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Lunch on Limoges has Red Hat ladies written all over it, but last Saturday's crowd actually included a bunch of middle-aged guys. I have to say that I don't recall ever seeing a kid in this restaurant, and I got a kick out of a sign near the front door that reads "Minimum of one entree per person." How diplomatic! How about: "If you plan to share a plate, get out!" Oh yeah, we aren't in Brooklyn.<br />
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Now for those entrees...After we got settled at our inviting, fresh-flower-topped table, Flo carried over an easel-type chalkboard that listed the day's menu. Hubmeister got the pecan-encrusted chicken breast entree -- the house specialty that I have scarfed down on previous occasions -- and I ordered soup and a sandwich.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j_rhdTJ-pnI/UQSDiInAAWI/AAAAAAAAAf0/bTOUywyDH-M/s1600/limoges3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j_rhdTJ-pnI/UQSDiInAAWI/AAAAAAAAAf0/bTOUywyDH-M/s400/limoges3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pecan dredge on the chicken also is offered with a grouper entree.</td></tr>
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Deliciously simplistic, the chicken breast was breaded, coated in pecan pieces and perfectly cooked, sauteed in a buttery, sugary praline sauce. It was accompanied by two sides: butternut squash casserole and potatoes. The butternut squash was a dead ringer for sweet potato casserole sans marshmallow. It was smooth and sweet. The potatoes were soft, chunky and rather boring. In fact, I am having a hard time remembering them, except for the fact that I recall their lack of pizazz.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-72iEU-cRX8Q/UQSDt1TGCMI/AAAAAAAAAf8/4VnnK4ZU9j4/s1600/limoges5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-72iEU-cRX8Q/UQSDt1TGCMI/AAAAAAAAAf8/4VnnK4ZU9j4/s400/limoges5.JPG" width="365" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gobble, gobble...This is real turkey.</td></tr>
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Soup of the day was French onion, which came alongside a turkey-stuffed croissant. The soup featured chopped onion in a light broth and, although the stock lacked a rich and beefy complexity, I didn't detect any cheap bouillon cube component. Served with a floating toasted baguette slice, the soup contained a blob of melted cheese that had mysteriously disappeared into the soup by the time the bowl reached me. All told, the soup was fair at best.<br />
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What impressed me most about my lunch was the turkey in the croissant. It was REAL turkey, not processed turkey lunch meat. Sliced from an actual turkey breast, the meat was very tasty combined with a berry-laced mayo, bacon and Swiss cheese. The croissant was pedestrian but passable.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UWJ9L1_vj7c/UQSD8_ckRnI/AAAAAAAAAgE/vyrzIrfO-IE/s1600/limoges2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UWJ9L1_vj7c/UQSD8_ckRnI/AAAAAAAAAgE/vyrzIrfO-IE/s400/limoges2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you look to the left of the waitress, you'll see a gigantic cake and a big ol' pie.</td></tr>
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Desserts displayed on the service counter of the open kitchen would tempt most sweet tooths. I spied mile-high coconut cake and a towering apple pie. Things don't come small in the South, ya'll. After polishing off the basket of mini-muffins and pineapple butter that were brought to the table before lunch was served, we felt we needed to skip dessert and enjoy another round of coffee, which Flo and Alice refilled tirelessly -- after all, we did order two entrees!<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: A pleasant diversion from Tampa<br />
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<a href="http://www.lunchonlimoges.com/lunchonlimoges.html">http://www.lunchonlimoges.com/lunchonlimoges.html</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1281596/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Lunch-On-Limoges-Dade-City"><img alt="Lunch On Limoges on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1281596/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-47177696589055658892013-01-24T18:56:00.000-05:002013-01-27T15:14:19.035-05:00Boca Kitchen: Cookin' GoodIt's a little disconcerting to see a car wreck as you are being shown to your dining table, but Sister Foodie and I were focused on lunch when we stopped by the comfortable and creative farm-to-table oasis that is Boca Kitchen, Bar and Market.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyyqqk8dU7c/UQGrUuk8ClI/AAAAAAAAAeI/gg7fQKrW9I4/s1600/bocakitchen5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyyqqk8dU7c/UQGrUuk8ClI/AAAAAAAAAeI/gg7fQKrW9I4/s400/bocakitchen5.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who doesn't like tablecloths? Nice touch.</td></tr>
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Thanks to an impressive expanse of windows lining two sides of the Hyde Park restaurant, Sister and I -- and the other patrons lunching at the much-ballyhooed eatery -- witnessed a typical Tampa smash-up at the intersection of W. Platt St. and South Blvd.<br />
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While the victims emerged unscathed from their mangled vehicles, we, without a moment's hesitation, proceeded to order Blistered Shishito Peppers, the Kimilwick Sandwich and the Staff Meal.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FtPrABmbMTQ/UQGrjv5gj5I/AAAAAAAAAeQ/lb6r9f5k_2c/s1600/bocakitchen4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FtPrABmbMTQ/UQGrjv5gj5I/AAAAAAAAAeQ/lb6r9f5k_2c/s400/bocakitchen4.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire up your mouth for Shishito Peppers.</td></tr>
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Sipping our iced teas to temper the spiciness of the peppers, we agreed that they would be a great diet-friendly appetizer to pair with Boca's craft beers. Although we liked the pile of peppers, I imagine that not everyone would care for them. True to their "blistered" description, they have a charred taste. Don't be fooled by the initial bites because, by about the seventh pepper, you will begin to sweat. The heat creeps up on you, but in a good way.<br />
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Bring on the sandwiches...and a ravenous hunger! These heifers are not for the timid eater. In fact, I have a bit of a bone to pick with our friendly, young server because I asked about portion size and she said the sandwiches are a "perfect" portion. Maybe for a competitive eater with a bottomless gut!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EPeRUXtsIes/UQGrvIgfNyI/AAAAAAAAAeY/3kBG3V9pvWE/s1600/bocakitchen2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EPeRUXtsIes/UQGrvIgfNyI/AAAAAAAAAeY/3kBG3V9pvWE/s400/bocakitchen2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terrific take on tuna.</td></tr>
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We managed to eat only half of our meal but nodded our approval of the flavors as we chomped. The Staff Meal featured fresh tuna -- coarsely chopped and tossed tuna-salad-sandwich style -- placed between thick slices of sourdough bread, then grilled. Eating a tuna fish sandwich made with fresh tuna will forever sour you on StarKist, but what took this sandwich to the next level were the additions of caramelized onions, cheese, tomato, avocado and "Boca bacon," thick slices of awesomeness that the restaurant smokes out back. Let me just say that the staff was freaking lucky that day!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOvlURW0hbk/UQGsAttNRII/AAAAAAAAAeg/eBzAxQZLwNo/s1600/bocakitchen3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOvlURW0hbk/UQGsAttNRII/AAAAAAAAAeg/eBzAxQZLwNo/s400/bocakitchen3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plan on a nap after you down this beefer.</td></tr>
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The Kimilwick Sandwich was piled high with juicy roast beef, horseradish sauce, garlic Boursin cheese and a fried tomato. The tomato added nice moisture, but that was some potent cheese! I would have preferred something milder, but the sandwich, served on a brioche bun (I think), was delicious nonetheless. Both sandwiches were accompanied by french fries that were so good that I believe duck fat had to be a player.<br />
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On a subsequent visit with the Mississippi Maven, we tried the Farmer's Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato and the Heirloom and Swine Flatbread. The highlight of the BLT was the incredible, thick and juicy bacon, reason enough to order it, but the smoky stack also featured a creamy avocado mayo and -- you know me by now -- an egg! I actually could have done without the egg because it didn't have a runny yolk and it wasn't hot, but this sandwich was decent and made better by the buttery grilled bread that encased it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lkvZepS2zpA/UQG_p1--lEI/AAAAAAAAAe0/Yzt2MYiwEfo/s1600/boca8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lkvZepS2zpA/UQG_p1--lEI/AAAAAAAAAe0/Yzt2MYiwEfo/s400/boca8.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep the bacon coming.</td></tr>
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If you still want bacon but served pizza style, go for the Heirloom and Swine Flatbread. Combined with Manchego cheese, caramelized onions and heirloom tomatoes, this thin-crusted concoction will take your taste buds for a pleasantly spicy spin. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxLUk7tn-PY/UQG_1kdtmCI/AAAAAAAAAe8/WjMakHtu9Fw/s1600/boca7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxLUk7tn-PY/UQG_1kdtmCI/AAAAAAAAAe8/WjMakHtu9Fw/s400/boca7.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The caramelized onions at Boca would be good on just about anything.</td></tr>
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My only complaint -- and it pains me to complain about this foodie-pleasing place -- is the fries were soggy on my second visit. They were greasy and as limp as noodles, and at the height of lunch service when they should be at their best. (Sorry, guys, but you need to know.)<br />
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Oh, how could I forget! We got dessert. I hardly ever get dessert but it was the Maven's birthday lunch and this place rocks, so we ordered the strawberry shortcake crumble or some such thing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S71ioAzVoD8/UQG__5afcGI/AAAAAAAAAfE/Aq4nZQ77PYA/s1600/boca6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S71ioAzVoD8/UQG__5afcGI/AAAAAAAAAfE/Aq4nZQ77PYA/s400/boca6.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dessert took us right to the Land of Oz.</td></tr>
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It came out blazing hot in a six-inch cast iron skillet and went somewhere over the rainbow of expectations. Whole strawberries glistening in their own juices were clustered atop half of a shortcake biscuit, then topped with a bit of crispy, sugary crumble and crowned with a scoop of French vanilla ice cream. The freezing ice cream over the piping-hot, locally grown and in-season berries, combined with the contrasting textures of the moistened cake, crunchy crumble and delicate fruit, make this one outstanding dessert.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>. <br />
Boca reminds me of trendy Atlanta restaurants that deftly put a Southern twist on fresh, straight-from-the-farmers-market ingredients and serve their creations in an atmosphere that reflects amped-up country sophistication. The aura is inviting at Boca, if not a bit noisy when things are hopping. Yep, I'd say it's downright hospitable -- and a welcome addition to the local dining scene.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: A breath of (organic) fresh air!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bocatampa.com/menu">http://www.bocatampa.com/menu</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1649986/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Hyde-Park/Boca-Kitchen-Bar-Market-Tampa"><img alt="Boca Kitchen Bar Market on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1649986/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-4703067351409660662012-07-24T21:29:00.000-04:002012-07-27T09:24:59.421-04:00Pinky's: Diner NouveauMan, I love a good egg. I cook them a few times a week and I like to order them out, but they can be tricky for a restaurant to get right. After all, people are picky about their eggs (maybe because they're so easy to cook at home). I remember my brother's college roommate asking my mom to scramble his eggs so they could "bounce off the walls." Ew. I prefer my scrambles creamy. What about fried eggs: over easy or sunny-side up? Some folks don't even know the difference. Then there's poached...which brings me to Pinky's.<br />
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The Mississippi Maven and I headed to Pinky's Diner the other day to try out their breakfast. Pinky's on Bay to Bay in South Tampa is a cute breakfast and lunch joint with a reputation for being jammed. We got there around 10 on a weekday and landed a table but, living up to its rep, every table was taken the entire time we were there. Counter seating was scarce, too, and we got the feeling that everybody in the square-foot-challenged space was a regular.The clean-cut crowd ranged from a kid wearing a Jesuit High T-shirt who looked as if he just rolled out of bed, to a dad decked out in eye-popping, lime-green argyle-print pants, to a mom in teeny-weeny bike shorts. This place screams South Tampa, and I'm not saying that's a bad thing.<br />
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Unless you have totally absurd tastes, you can find something appealing to order off Pinky's menu. Choose the mundane egg breakfast if you aren't adventurous or amp things up with a frittata, pork belly bacon or oatmeal pancakes.The Maven was in the mood for Mexican and got an egg quesadilla consisting of eggs, ham, Cheddar and Provolone. Salsa and sour cream were accompaniments.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EUikftBAQJw/UA89zLqKpDI/AAAAAAAAAdo/CnqMno7QOFE/s1600/pinky's+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EUikftBAQJw/UA89zLqKpDI/AAAAAAAAAdo/CnqMno7QOFE/s400/pinky's+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bring your appetite for the Breakfast Quesadilla.</td></tr>
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I would have tasted it but I got this gorgeous plate:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rFgOyMTd7Js/UA8cR4b7VGI/AAAAAAAAAbg/96PS_E0_TX8/s1600/pinky%2527s+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rFgOyMTd7Js/UA8cR4b7VGI/AAAAAAAAAbg/96PS_E0_TX8/s400/pinky%2527s+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Blackstone Benedict with rosemary home fries and fruit</td></tr>
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One egg yolk gushed nicely but the other was cooked solid. Like I said, those eggs are devils to get right! Poached eggs should ooze, and Pinky's knows it. Technical issue aside, when I bit into the bacon, grilled ham, spinach and tomato that were stacked beneath the eggs and homemade hollandaise, I forgave the glitch. Traditional English muffin halves were the base for this tasty Blackstone Benedict conglomeration, which was served with rosemary home fries and fresh fruit.<br />
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Known for its oatmeal pancakes, Pinky's offers them a la carte, so the Maven ordered one:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NoeM1jSwUb4/UA8jylgRxAI/AAAAAAAAAcI/YbnRqkbvftU/s1600/pinky's+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NoeM1jSwUb4/UA8jylgRxAI/AAAAAAAAAcI/YbnRqkbvftU/s400/pinky's+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Oatmeal Pancake. All hail the carbohydrate! Life is worth living.</td></tr>
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Dusted with powdered sugar and a bit of butter, it was fluffy, savory and sweet. These fine specimens rate a return visit.</div>
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We ordered cafe con leche and a latte. The cafe con leche was too foamy. I had to slog through the foam to get to the coffee, resulting in a milk mustache. Pass. The Maven had a latte. I forgot to ask her how it was. Maybe she'll comment. I'll stick with standard coffee next time.<br />
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Service was scattered. Our server was friendly but inattentive and the Maven had to get up and lasso him at the bar to get him to cash us out. We both would have liked a second cup of coffee but he never came around to ask.<br />
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Breakfast for two, including tip, was $36.<br />
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Verdict: It's Pinky's, not Stinky's<br />
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<a href="http://www.pinkysdiner.com/menu.pdf">http://www.pinkysdiner.com/menu.pdf</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1422725/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Palma-Ceia/Pinkys-Diner-Tampa"><img alt="Pinky's Diner on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1422725/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-19346847298631787112012-07-20T18:58:00.000-04:002012-07-20T19:05:32.968-04:00Carmel Cafe and Wine Bar: A Shooting StarHow many times have you heard the assertion that 90 percent of restaurants fail in their first year? Well, I've got some news for you: According to a study done by Ohio State University's hospitality management program, that's a myth. Results of the study, published in 2007, found that about one in four restaurants close or change ownership within their first year of business.<br />
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Surprisingly, the nine-out-of-10 urban legend seems to have been perpetuated by none other than American Express in a 2003 TV spot featuring chef Rocco DeSpirito. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, Ohio State hospitality professor H.G. Parsa asked American Express where they got that number and the company had no clue. Uh oh!<br />
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One local restaurant that's beating the odds, whether accurate or inflated, is Carmel Cafe and Wine Bar. In fact, I'll wager it's destined for "chaindom," which is hardly surprising when you know who's behind it -- a restaurant success story himself, one of the Outback Steakhouse founders, Chris Sullivan. His savvy new group premiered the first Carmel Cafe in Clearwater in 2010, the second at this location in Carrollwood in 2011 and this year adds two more -- one which recently opened in Sarasota and another that will launch next month in South Tampa.<br />
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Is it any wonder this is a winning concept? Small plates offered at a good price point, mouthwatering beauty shots of all the menu items showcased on a user-friendly iPad, an interesting selection of modern Mediterranean entrees, nice pours from a wide array of wines, comfortably hip and delightfully lit decor...Everything is so tempting and enjoyable that before you know it, your guest check has ballooned. Ingenious!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8pV9mOv0QuA/UAm-dBl7XTI/AAAAAAAAAaA/5mReTvi8ZYA/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8pV9mOv0QuA/UAm-dBl7XTI/AAAAAAAAAaA/5mReTvi8ZYA/s400/photo+4.JPG" width="327" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each table gets an iPad. We were given a printed menu too.</td></tr>
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Carmel Cafe is especially fun for a group because many plates are geared for sharing and the iPad menu promotes an "I'll-order-this-if-you-order-that" mob mentality. One thing I want to point out: You set the pace of the meal, so if you initially order from the iPad everything you plan to eat, expect to see all of the courses crowding your table at one time. Nobody told us that bit of information when I first visited for lunch and the appetizers and salads appeared simultaneously because we ordered our whole meal in one full swoop. At dinner, our server explained that the diners set the pace. If you want to linger over your wine and nibble on your appetizer for 20 minutes, have at it. When you're ready for the next plate, reach for the iPad and tap in your choice.The order shoots to the kitchen and as soon as the dish is ready -- which is crazy fast -- it's brought to the table. Armed with that knowledge, we had a leisurely dinner that flowed flawlessly.<br />
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During my two visits, here are a few things I sampled:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QqS0oYsbBlo/UAm_dDSobuI/AAAAAAAAAaI/PuwY6t060T8/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QqS0oYsbBlo/UAm_dDSobuI/AAAAAAAAAaI/PuwY6t060T8/s400/photo+1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chickpea Fries with Tomato Jam and Curry Aioli<br />
A little crispy and a little creamy. Sister Foodie and I liked these with the curry dip.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZaBlWUckP4/UAm_pAA6dxI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/ttj6LAedr_E/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZaBlWUckP4/UAm_pAA6dxI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/ttj6LAedr_E/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pistachio Apricot Quinoa Couscous<br />
This was unusual but not memorable.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fo78QDcGFsY/UAm_yg0kJDI/AAAAAAAAAaY/ExUH9irTu1Y/s1600/photo+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fo78QDcGFsY/UAm_yg0kJDI/AAAAAAAAAaY/ExUH9irTu1Y/s320/photo+7.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red and Yellow Roasted Beets with Goat Cheese, Watercress and Arugula<br />
A very tasty lunch salad that I would repeat on another trip.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVG__SL-QmM/UAnALxTpkCI/AAAAAAAAAa0/971rDvREDjs/s1600/photo+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVG__SL-QmM/UAnALxTpkCI/AAAAAAAAAa0/971rDvREDjs/s400/photo+9.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pressed Angus Burger with Caramelized Onions and Chili Aioli<br />
A Hubmeister favorite! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rVIQHATacWU/UAnAFOAw9RI/AAAAAAAAAas/3jfg0GxtNn8/s1600/photo+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="393" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rVIQHATacWU/UAnAFOAw9RI/AAAAAAAAAas/3jfg0GxtNn8/s400/photo+8.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spinach Gnocchi Marseille<br />
Hard to go wrong with mussels, shrimp and scallops in a bouillabaisse broth.<br />
I could have done without the goop on the crouton but in general <br />
the flavors were mighty fine.<br />
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</tbody></table>
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The evening atmosphere attracts a more sophisticated crowd -- picture romantic-date-night 20s and 30s meets middle-aged-to-aging country clubbers who can knock back their fair share of vino.The night of our visit the bar area was buzzing but pleasant, packed mostly with people waiting for tables. <br />
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Some interior shots for your enjoyment:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VvwSWDrQQXU/UAnBJDhFIoI/AAAAAAAAAa8/ngkbwiTuSas/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VvwSWDrQQXU/UAnBJDhFIoI/AAAAAAAAAa8/ngkbwiTuSas/s400/photo+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty is a pretty lame adjective, but here it suits.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nx9EaQLSxvI/UAnBXEGjlKI/AAAAAAAAAbE/bCyKCuKMT1I/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nx9EaQLSxvI/UAnBXEGjlKI/AAAAAAAAAbE/bCyKCuKMT1I/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of wine. Mmmmm.....</td></tr>
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Carmel Cafe is open for lunch and dinner and serves brunch on the weekend. Reservations are accepted for parties of six or more, but smaller parties can call ahead for preferred seating.<br />
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Verdict: Fun night out<br />
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<a href="http://www.carmelcafe.com/menu">http://www.carmelcafe.com/menu</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1612674/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Carrollwood/Carmel-Cafe-and-Wine-Bar-Tampa"><img alt="Carmel Cafe and Wine Bar on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1612674/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-76187098729823396952012-07-12T20:41:00.000-04:002012-07-12T21:32:20.131-04:00Local Flavor: West Tampa Sandwich ShopI discovered this place when Son of Hubmeister went to nearby Tampa Catholic High School. A modest, stand-alone, homey establishment, West Tampa Sandwich Shop is on Armenia Ave. near MLK and it's easy to miss. The parking lot closest to the front door is always full but they have an overflow lot just south on Armenia. This is a quintessential Tampa haunt where you're just as likely to spy prominent local politicians as you are Spanish-speaking grandmas.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZP_SrPALPk/T_8_yJWHaiI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/zHUqwakaqN8/s1600/west+tampa+interior+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZP_SrPALPk/T_8_yJWHaiI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/zHUqwakaqN8/s400/west+tampa+interior+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yup, plastic covers are on the tables. </td></tr>
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This bustling place is on my list of culinary rarities I will miss if I ever move out of Tampa. The photos of family, friends and random diners papering the walls of the little house, the bizarre food-service carts rolled through the tiny dining area by ladies who look as if they've worked there for decades, the incessant grinding of coffee beans, the crowded, old-fashioned food counter overlooking women crafting Cuban sandwiches on bread that is 10 feet long, old Cuban guys meeting for a meal or simply getting a cup of Cuban coffee and reading the paper - it all adds to a certain retro Latin charm. I can best describe it as the Cuban version of the American diner. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vEiGfx3w3ys/T_82qyHkmlI/AAAAAAAAAZE/rUWjMCXti2A/s1600/west+tampa+sandwich+interior" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vEiGfx3w3ys/T_82qyHkmlI/AAAAAAAAAZE/rUWjMCXti2A/s400/west+tampa+sandwich+interior" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Empty seats are uncommon. I was here at an off hour.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Breakfast and lunch are the meals I've enjoyed, but they serve dinner as well. I recommend the ropa vieja sandwich, but I usually can't resist ordering half a Cuban and a cup of black bean soup with a cafe con leche.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3eHrii17eos/T_84P8EKh7I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/P6im8AAvVSM/s1600/west+tampa+sandwich" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3eHrii17eos/T_84P8EKh7I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/P6im8AAvVSM/s400/west+tampa+sandwich" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nsMQArkTxzg/T_84VAtS61I/AAAAAAAAAZY/n45oyOSyrAM/s1600/west+tampa+sandwich+shop" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nsMQArkTxzg/T_84VAtS61I/AAAAAAAAAZY/n45oyOSyrAM/s400/west+tampa+sandwich+shop" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Half a Cuban and a cup of soup: Find a better meal for $5.50!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The Cuban sandwich offered here doesn't get enough media attention. It's one of the best in the city. <br />
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With prices so affordable, I don't know how they make a profit, but after 30 years in business, I think they've got it figured out. And the people watching is free!<br />
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Just a note: After a visit to WTSS, head south on Armenia to <strong>Cacciatore</strong> <strong>Bros</strong>., a family-run Italian market and butcher shop that also stocks Spanish products. Be sure to take home some homemade sausage. They also have terrific olive salad in their deli area.<br />
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Verdict: Local favorite<br />
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<a href="http://www.westtampasandwichshop.com/">http://www.westtampasandwichshop.com/</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/345543/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/West-Tampa/West-Tampa-Sandwich-Shop-Tampa"><img alt="West Tampa Sandwich Shop on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/345543/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-29036113628287926462012-07-10T14:27:00.001-04:002013-01-27T15:25:17.763-05:00Finding Faves at Dockside Dave'sHoly rhymes and alliteration, Batman, my blog break is over! <br />
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What brought me back? <br />
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I needed a nudge, I needed inspiration, I needed....a fried grouper sandwich and onion rings at Dockside Dave's on St. Pete Beach!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CJoinFIixQ/T_uLVU_i-8I/AAAAAAAAAYM/ed9-9O-QiHo/s1600/exterior" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0CJoinFIixQ/T_uLVU_i-8I/AAAAAAAAAYM/ed9-9O-QiHo/s400/exterior" width="322" /></a></div>
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I feel compelled to share my half-pound black grouper bonanza with the food-following public. That, and to shout out a new <strong>Totally</strong> <strong>Tasty</strong> <strong>Find</strong>: Dockside Dave's onion rings!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ju2ZnmpdZY/T_uLe-Z_t5I/AAAAAAAAAYk/MOuTKgdvVGc/s1600/onion+rings" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ju2ZnmpdZY/T_uLe-Z_t5I/AAAAAAAAAYk/MOuTKgdvVGc/s400/onion+rings" width="400" /></a></div>
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Let's begin with those sweet vegetables of shame, shall we? They were sliced thick, dipped in a fairly light batter that was seasoned to salt and peppery perfection, and then fried to a golden crisp. Sure, there was some grease left behind on the tissue paper in the basket. Who cares? These babies rank among the best onion rings I have ever eaten. You know when you bite into an onion ring and the strand of onion sometimes disengages from the batter and all you're left with is a greasy, empty shell and chin-singeing onion trailing from your mouth? That doesn't happen here.What you bite into is what you get. No flesh-scorching facial surprises.Try them dipped in the horseradish sauce that is brought to your table. Yowza! I would return for a basket of those alone (along with the ice-cold Michelob I downed). <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LmCxkE_kxmA/T_udfVJesVI/AAAAAAAAAYw/BwSzqCLG0Bo/s1600/interior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LmCxkE_kxmA/T_udfVJesVI/AAAAAAAAAYw/BwSzqCLG0Bo/s320/interior.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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But, wait! This meal is just beginning. First of all, Hubmeister hilariously asked our amusing T-shirt-and-shorts-clad server if they had fish sandwiches, to which she flatly replied, "Nobody feels like reading today." Amen. She was a hoot.They sure as hell didn't feel like listening, either. On our way to the little beachside hangout, I explained to my loving husband that sampling the made-famous-by-Southern-Living grouper sandwich was the whole point of this mission. In addition, this beach dive features the hallowed fish sandwich at the top of its menu and states six different ways you can have it prepared, thus the waitress' comment about reading the menu. Earth to Hubmeister!<br />
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So, the Southern Living magazine article is hanging on the wall facing me and I can't wait to see if this sandwich beats out the best grouper sandwich in the Bay area (and possibly anywhere on the planet), which, in my opinion, is the beautiful beast served up by Frenchy's in Clearwater. (See my blog post: "Totally Tasty Find: Frenchy's Super Grouper Sandwich.")<br />
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Funny Waitress (and I call her waitress because she is old enough to be cool enough not to be insulted by the term waitress) told us that the beer-battered version is Dockside Dave's signature item, so Hubs and I ordered that preparation, while Son of Hubs opted for the blackened technique.The server also recommended that we scale down the sides because the fish portions are big. I believe she meant GARGANTUAN! A half-pound of fried grouper was placed before me, twice the size of the cornmeal-dusted bun it crowned, and I knew immediately I would be ditching the bread.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asJ2KZXlPDQ/T_uLZlwdV_I/AAAAAAAAAYU/r7WQgb8ypdw/s1600/grouper+sandwich.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asJ2KZXlPDQ/T_uLZlwdV_I/AAAAAAAAAYU/r7WQgb8ypdw/s400/grouper+sandwich.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The grouper fillet spanned the length of the basket. Can you find the bun? It's there!</td></tr>
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The grouper - fresh, mild and moist - was the heavenly star of the show. If you can manage to eat it sandwich-style, which Hubs and Son did, you can top it with the fresh slice of tomato, onion, pickle and romaine lettuce leaf that are served alongside the fish. The sandwich comes solo and is market price, which was $12.95. <br />
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In our blissful ignorance, we ordered small baskets of onion rings and waffle fries for the table. FYI - the adjective "small" is an understatement.They might be considered small to giants.The fries were totally wasted and it's a shame because they were piping hot and brought to the table by a guy from the kitchen who obviously didn't want them wilting under a heat lamp, indicative that the people here care about food quality. Nevertheless, we had no room for fries as we were practically morphing into fish and swimming out the door by the time we left. Note to self: When dining at Dockside Dave's remember the old adage, your eyes are bigger than your stomach.<br />
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Despite our grouper afterglow, Hubs and I still place Frenchy's fish sandwich as winner by a nose. For me, it's mainly because I can manage Frenchy's rendition as an actual sandwich; and for Hubs, because Frenchy's version comes topped with melted cheese. By the way, you can order cheese on your sandwich at Dockside Dave's, and Dave's batter is crispier than Frenchy's, if you happen to prefer it that way. <br />
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All told, if you are in the area and feel like some bodacious onion rings and a monstrous portion of fresh seafood, don't hesitate to visit the cheesy (and greasy) Gilligan's Island atmosphere and wiseass waitresses at Dockside Dave's. <br />
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Verdict: Greasy thumbs up...and postworthy!<br />
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<a href="http://www.docksidedavesgrill.com/menu.html">www.docksidedavesgrill.com/menu.html</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/341591/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/St-Pete-Beach-Treasure-Island/Dockside-Daves-St-Pete-Beach"><img alt="Dockside Dave's on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/341591/biglink.gif" style="border: currentColor; height: 146px; padding: 0px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-89345756703483007932011-09-09T12:47:00.265-04:002011-11-14T20:45:19.963-05:00Red Mesa on Fourth: One Fine TableFinally finished all my NYC posts and I am back on Tampa turf. Shortly after my trip, Sister Foodie came to town. Well, you know we've had some disappointing meals in the ol' Bay area. On a mission to break this losing streak, I took her across the Howard Frankland to Red Mesa in St. Pete. <br />
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I had never been to this Fourth Street Mexican eatery but had heard good things. A little background check revealed this restaurant has two locations. Although the newer downtown St. Pete cantina looks more colorful, with its lively outdoor courtyard and spiffy Latin-influenced interior, I heard the food is solid at the original. It was.<br />
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We ordered a couple of Dos Equis and asked the waitress if the calamari was fresh. After the Irish calamari calamity in New York, I wasn't taking any chances on freezer squid. She said it wasn't frozen, so we ventured in that direction. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hySHjNwnj10/TmzTxLvS_hI/AAAAAAAAAYI/F6lAOK18bN4/s1600/Photo-0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" nba="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hySHjNwnj10/TmzTxLvS_hI/AAAAAAAAAYI/F6lAOK18bN4/s400/Photo-0015.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamari Frito</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Coated in a light, tasty batter, the Calamari Frito was tender and tasted fresh. The two dipping sauces that came with it -- one a habanero and the other a chipotle chili aioli -- provided a welcome Mexican spin and a break from the usual squirt of lemon. The habanero mixture was a sinus-draining concoction that Sister F. and I loved. The smokey aioli was good, too.<br />
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For the lunch mains, Sister selected a burrito and I stuck with the seafood theme with Shrimp Salteado. This Mexican plate was a mouthwatering preparation of sauteed shrimp with rajas (a saute of chiles and onions), Spanish chorizo, tomatoes, mushrooms and potatoes, all cooked with a splash of sherry and finished with pasilla chile sauce. Thanks to the diverse population living in the Tampa area, I count my lucky stars for having the good fortune to discover this type of authentic Mexican cuisine. I doubt whether I'll ever be able to stomach Tex-Mex again. Chock-full of spicy sausage flavor, mild chile heat, a fresh collaboration of vegetables and succulent shrimp, this dish was fantastic. The saute was accompanied by a satisfying helping of black beans and rice.<br />
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As she devoured an enormous, flavor-packed burrito (also plated with black beans and rice), Sister Foodie forgot our poor history of Bay-area dining. Mission accomplished.<br />
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Red Mesa would be a welcome addition to any neighborhood; I wish it would cross the bay to mine. This location features a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Two connected dining rooms offer booth or table seating and a small bar is available, too. The prices are totally affordable and the weighty lunch and dinner menus would keep me coming back for eons. Due to my New Tampa location, I won't be visiting as often as I'd like, but this restaurant's dizzying selection of soups, salads, appetizers, Mexican plates, burritos, enchiladas, tacos, wraps, sandwiches and house specialties will definitely lure me across the HF more often. I can't wait to try the dinner menu, which is equally tempting and more refined than burritos and enchiladas. <br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Ole! <br />
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<a href="http://www.redmesarestaurant.com/welcome.html">http://www.redmesarestaurant.com/welcome.html</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/344311/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Northeast-St-Petersburg/Red-Mesa-Restaurant-St-Petersburg"><img alt="Red Mesa Restaurant on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/344311/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-47025532697423576322011-09-07T16:45:00.001-04:002011-11-14T20:40:18.905-05:00The Big Apple Bites: Leftovers<strong>Tir Na Nog</strong><br />
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So Frommer's said Tir Na Nog was among the best Irish pubs in New York City. Just so happened this Midtown watering hole was a few blocks from our hotel, so off we went to hoist a few pints and grab some grub.<br />
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The place certainly captures the friendly feel of a well-worn European pub but on a much grander scale. There's a bar, of course, but there are also three distinct dining rooms decorated with vintage furniture and other antiquated treasures that the owners extracted from Irish churches and castles and then shipped to New York. Warmed by rich woods and earthy colors, the dimly lit rooms are teeming with Celtic charm. <br />
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We were seated in the Cathedral room, named for the long pew of regal seats abutting the wall. This room views the bar, which is where I actually longed to be perched due to the extremely uncomfortable church seating. No slouching allowed in church! My back was forced into a stick-straight position, propped against a hard, albeit beautifully carved, wooden chair back that was surely perfect for a bishop doing penance. The motto here should be Drink Up and Sin No More! After a long day of travel and schlepping around the city, I wanted comfort -- and beer. <br />
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Oh happy day, that beer was good! We decided to get some snacks to go with them and our friendly Irish server obliged with a bar menu. I often ask servers if there's a standout menu item, which I did here, and was told that many patrons enjoy the sausage rolls. We shared an order of those and a plate of calamari. <br />
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Calamari is a downfall of mine and I obviously was delirious when I ordered it at an Irish pub. It was supposedly lightly dusted in panko and fried. Come on, the description should have read: Straight out of a freezer bag, compliments of our restaurant's generic-food supplier. Every ringlet was exactly the same size, which was the width and circumference of a ring you'd put on your finger. That was some emaciated squid! And absolutely no spidery pieces, which are my favorite parts, were anywhere on the plate. This dish earns the dubious distinction of the worst calamari I have ever ordered. (That award once belonged to a Peachtree City, Ga., Carrabba's and a rubbery batch that could have been used to make tires.)<br />
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The sausage rolls were cocktail weinies, pure and simple, but in sausage form, not the hot dog variety. Sure, they were good. Who doesn't like a juicy, salty pork-fat product dipped into mustard to enhance their beer-drinking experience? I know I do, but not enough to trust the dinner menu.<br />
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Although this Old-Worldy establishment is lovely to behold and an interesting place to throw back a Guinness or three, the bar food (and those seats) sent us packing on a journey to find another restaurant for dinner. <br />
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<a href="http://www.tirnanognyc.com/">http://www.tirnanognyc.com/</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/41751/restaurant/Midtown-West/Tir-Na-Nog-New-York"><img alt="Tir Na Nog on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/41751/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>Heartland Brewery</strong><br />
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That's how we ended up at Heartland Brewery near Times Square. We were in beer-drinking mode now, and after wandering aimlessly looking for a non-touristy place to eat, we landed in a booth at just such a place: a touristy, chain-reeking microbrewery. More good beer, mediocre food. One review I read after eating there said it is a step above T.G.I. Friday's and that's exactly how I would describe it, which is why I stuck with a burger and fries. They were fine but forgettable. That pretty much sums it up. <br />
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This is a reasonable spot to grab a burger and a decent beer, but don't expect anything more than chain fare. You get what you pay for. With six locations throughout the city, this American pub appears popular with the 20-something set. <br />
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This day's restaurant outings -- the museum, the bar and the brew chain -- prompted a speedy purchase the following day of Zagat's <em>New York City Restaurants 2011</em>. No more stumbling into random places for me. By the way, Petrie Court Cafe at the museum and Tir Na Nog didn't make the book, and Heartland Brewery got a 14 for food, which lands them in the "fair to good" range. As a point of reference, Zagat's top score is 30.<br />
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<a href="http://www.heartlandbrewery.com/Times_Square.php">http://www.heartlandbrewery.com/Times_Square.php</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/1599478/restaurant/Midtown-West/Heartland-Brewery-New-York"><img alt="Heartland Brewery on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1599478/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-81953776693743949212011-08-23T10:38:00.000-04:002011-08-23T10:38:31.983-04:00The Big Apple Bites: Le Barricou, BrooklynNever order "the special." <br />
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How many times have I heard Hubmeister utter that sage advice? Several years and culinary letdowns later, I finally listened to him. <br />
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Commonly known to people who have worked in restaurants, "the special" evolves from leftover or surplus ingredients the chef doesn't want to pitch, or it's a creative experiment that's being tested and tweaked before landing on the main menu. When you take the plunge into "the special" pool, you might sink or you might swim. And you might ask yourself, "Do I feel lucky tonight?" <br />
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Unfortunately for Daughtress, she drowned in disappointment on our dinner visit to Le Barricou in Brooklyn. <br />
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Daughtress currently lives in Brooklyn and wanted to give us a tour of the local scene in Williamsburg, so we ventured out of Manhattan. Taking out my trusty <em>Zagat Guide to New York City Restaurants</em>, I flipped to Brooklyn and chose this French spot, which earned "very good to excellent" scores for food and decor, and also seemed reasonably priced.<br />
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Lest you be put off by my bold introduction, allow me to interject that <strong>I really liked this place</strong>. The ambiance was charming and intimate, offering a romantic setting for couples -- and we saw lots of them. A few candlelit tables were located outside the entrance, but because of the heat, everyone chose to dine indoors. Occupying a long, narrow space in a row of aging urban storefronts on Grand St., this cozy French bistro features a front room with a pretty dark-wood bar on one side and a smattering of tables on the other, and an adjacent dining area that stretches toward the back of the building. <br />
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Ours was not the best table because we were sandwiched in a corner between the bar and the front window, and the wait staff had trouble serving us. We ordered a bottle of Macon-Lugny white Burgundy, and Hubmeister was charged with putting it on ice and refilling glasses because the servers couldn't get to the bucket. It was also uncomfortably warm inside, but I'll cut them some slack because the city was experiencing temperatures that I imagine might be found in Hell.<br />
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The oppressive heat was probably what drove Daughtress to select not one, but two specials: a cold Cucumber Soup and a salad of Grilled Watermelon on Mixed Greens. The soup was passable but a bowl of it was overkill, and the salad was a disaster. The taste was off balance and she barely touched it. The watermelon was devoid of sweetness, so any type of sweet and salty flavor contrast was missing. The fruit possessed an unpleasant char and the dressing contained a mysterious ingredient that everyone at the table disliked. It was a choppy night in the Sea of Specials, as Daughtress tried to stay afloat by sharing her parents' entrees. <br />
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Hubmeister ordered a tasty and creamy Vegetable Risotto that he enjoyed, but I confess that I am the only family member who enthusiastically recommends trying this place. I apparently made the best choice: Coq au Vin. Chicken falling off the bone and luxuriating in a delectable red-wine sauce was served over a heaping serving of some of the best mashed potatoes I have had anywhere. The whole dish tasted as if it were lovingly prepared by a French <em>grandmere</em>. This was comfort food defined, a perfect stew to order when there's a chill in the air. <br />
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Pre-entree, both Hubs and I ordered house salads of mesclun dressed with Dijon vinaigrette, and they were fresh, bright and clean-the-plate good. We also reached a few times for the bread basket, which consisted of lovely baguette slices. <br />
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I would return to Le Barricou, but I am a sucker for rich, slowly cooked French food and an authentic Parisian bistro atmosphere. Hubs could take or leave this place, but, really, how many vegetable risotto entrees are going to knock your socks off?<br />
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Will Daughtress give Le Barricou another try? Probably not. <br />
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Will she order off the standard menu from now on? Do kids ever listen to their parents? <br />
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Note: No charge cards accepted but ATM on site.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Inviting neighborhood cafe. Stick to the tried and true dishes.<br />
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<a href="http://lebarricouny.com/menus/menu_011909.pdf">http://lebarricouny.com/menus/menu_011909.pdf</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/661273/restaurant/New-York/Williamsburg/Le-Barricou-Brooklyn"><img alt="Le Barricou on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/661273/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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.Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-20624964982284827862011-08-08T12:20:00.002-04:002011-08-08T12:27:56.788-04:00The Big Apple Bites: Adrienne's PizzabarIf only a walk down Wall Street would bring some luck. With so many uncertainties these days, there is one thing I know for sure: If I were a NY trader right now (or probably any time, for that matter), I'd be drowning my sorrows on nearby Stone Street in the plethora of pubs and eateries flanking it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Restaurants line the aptly named Stone Street.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YJDdYJ3FQwE/Tj__aMn8EJI/AAAAAAAAAXs/njGOic53Xos/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" naa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YJDdYJ3FQwE/Tj__aMn8EJI/AAAAAAAAAXs/njGOic53Xos/s400/027.JPG" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If it weren't for the heat wave, dining al fresco may have won us over.</td></tr>
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At the top of my list of hangouts would be Adrienne's Pizzabar. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k59O4R-R7cw/TkAACaqshEI/AAAAAAAAAYE/8I5e47jt2RY/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298px" naa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k59O4R-R7cw/TkAACaqshEI/AAAAAAAAAYE/8I5e47jt2RY/s400/028.JPG" width="400px" /></a></div><br />
In a city that could be paved with pizza, you take note when you see this sign posted in a restaurant's window:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCHjl1zlO1k/Tj_-4rJcMeI/AAAAAAAAAXo/U-e1udfuyxY/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241px" naa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCHjl1zlO1k/Tj_-4rJcMeI/AAAAAAAAAXo/U-e1udfuyxY/s400/029.JPG" width="400px" /></a></div><br />
Named "Favorite Place to Eat Pizza" by The New York Times? Or how about these accolades:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zagat rarely lets me down.</td></tr>
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After enjoying the pizza at Eataly, I felt compelled to try it. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JsNKRgvvi-w/Tj__gUWV5tI/AAAAAAAAAXw/LPIrYLTQhnY/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300px" naa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JsNKRgvvi-w/Tj__gUWV5tI/AAAAAAAAAXw/LPIrYLTQhnY/s400/022.JPG" width="400px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not your mama's pizza joint.</td></tr>
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Like Eataly, this modern-looking establishment features Neapolitan pizza. Sitting at the bar watching soccer on TV, and placing our order with the Italian bartender, we fell happily into the European vibe. Service was somewhat aloof and there was a bit of confusion with Daughtress' order, but it was quickly remedied. <br />
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What did I care? My attention was focused on one thing and one thing only:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 10-inch round of love.</td></tr>
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Pizza Napoletana. It tasted as good as it looks. <br />
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The tomatoes were fresh and bright, the crust charred and crispy yet a tad chewy, and the garlic shavings and basil provided just enough seasoning. It was an OMG moment. Sorry Batali and Bastianich, this pizza reigns supreme. I also saw several people consuming a thin-crust square pizza that looked <em>favoloso</em>. <br />
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<a href="http://www.adriennespizzabar.com/">http://www.adriennespizzabar.com/</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/20605/restaurant/Financial-District/Adriennes-Pizza-Bar-New-York"><img alt="Adrienne's Pizza Bar on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/20605/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-88199436568402562632011-08-07T22:17:00.000-04:002011-08-07T22:17:10.587-04:00The Big Apple Bites: Chelsea MarketAfter writing that last post about crummy museum food, I thought I'd tell you about foodster heaven over at Chelsea Market.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chelsea Market is colorful, and quite handy if you are searching for green cactus pears. </td></tr>
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I loved this place. First of all, this section of Chelsea proved one of my favorite areas of the city. With its red-brick buildings and neighborhood charm, it's a pleasant spot to wander. It's also a perfect fit for a marketplace teeming with bakeries, restaurants owned by Iron Chefs (Morimoto), kitchen shops, produce markets, fresh seafood stores, delis, creperies, coffee bars, spice and nut vendors, and an assortment of other interesting food and merchandise targeted at foodoids. Last but not least, it is home to Food Network, which is why you may have seen some of the purveyors in the market featured on Food Network programs. <br />
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A welcome respite from the blazing inferno outside, Chelsea Market is a cool indoor food cave housed in a restored biscuit factory. What? No wonder I like it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With several locations throughout the city, Amy's is a wise place to spend your bread.</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>A winding brick promenade led me straight to <strong>Amy's</strong> <strong>Bread</strong>, where I sampled a savory black-olive twist and the biggest sticky bun you've ever seen. Good? Are you kidding? The yeasty specimen had to be 4 inches tall and oozed with yummy, buttery caramelization. I detected an ingredient not usually present in sticky buns, possibly maple syrup or molasses.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bakery voyeurism. Huge panes of glass invite nosy foodies to peek.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.amysbread.com/menu.htm">http://www.amysbread.com/menu.htm</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/20962/restaurant/Meatpacking-District/Amys-Bread-in-Chelsea-Market-New-York"><img alt="Amy's Bread in Chelsea Market on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/20962/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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Next up: <strong>Sarabeth's</strong> <strong>Kitchen</strong>. Hubmeister and Daughtress sampled the <em>pain</em> <em>du</em> <em>matin</em> (translation: bread of the morning) and a cheese-filled pastry. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YI-hyo82sOQ/Tj8YhQszLEI/AAAAAAAAAXU/XupZ9qcM8JM/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YI-hyo82sOQ/Tj8YhQszLEI/AAAAAAAAAXU/XupZ9qcM8JM/s400/005.JPG" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Folks enjoying the fruits of Sarabeth's Kitchen.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meet the lovely Daughtress as she peruses the goods at Sarabeth's.</td></tr>
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Sounds of "mmmm" resonated throughout the quaint little shop as the Food and Loathing family made their presence known. Sarabeth's had several people sitting around drinking coffee and noshing on sweets in its pleasant little environment, but I understand it tends to pack 'em in. I appreciated the calm.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sarabeth.com/restaurants.asp">http://www.sarabeth.com/restaurants.asp</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/39144/restaurant/Meatpacking-District/Sarabeths-Bakery-New-York"><img alt="Sarabeth's Bakery on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/39144/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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A strong gravitational pull was drawing Hubs to <strong>Dickson's</strong> <strong>Farmstand</strong> <strong>Meats</strong>, a place boasting homemade hot dogs, but clearer heads prevailed and the estrogen-fueled members of the family yanked him away. If Son of Hubmeister had been with us this trip, I know I would be reporting about those dogs right now.<br />
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Before I forget, I must mention the fresh -- as in still breathing on the crushed ice -- softshell crabs at the <strong>Lobster</strong> <strong>Place Seafood</strong> <strong>Market</strong>. Boy, did they look good!<br />
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We arrived at Chelsea Market mid-morning, which was ideal, because the lunch crowd was piling in when we left for the next stop on the food train, Eataly.<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.chelseamarket.com/">http://www.chelseamarket.com/</a></div>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-6249389508015818252011-08-06T12:43:00.024-04:002011-08-06T16:38:22.732-04:00The Big Apple Bites: Petrie Court CafeHow in the world did we end up hungry at a museum? It's an amateur mistake. With a gazillion restaurants in New York City, the last on my wish list would be one located at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. But there we were, Hubmeister the Museum Freak and myself, hungry at 2 p.m. in a phenomenal museum, the fantastic bagels we savored that morning having faded into a happy memory.<br />
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As bad luck would have it, the Zagat-rated museum restaurant with the great view of the city, the Roof Garden Cafe, was closed due to the over-100-degree temperature, which left us with the choice of the cafeteria or the Petrie Court Cafe. We picked the latter.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-soaV2VXlMxk/Tj1X7tK5mQI/AAAAAAAAAXI/7jra0S1gd-o/s1600/New+York6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-soaV2VXlMxk/Tj1X7tK5mQI/AAAAAAAAAXI/7jra0S1gd-o/s400/New+York6.jpg" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Floor-to-ceiling windows (right) provide a clear view of Central Park.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
Petrie Court reminded me of an enormous, upscale hotel ballroom. The clanking of dishes, waiters rushing about. It's certainly nothing to write home about in the looks department, unless you are partial to monochromatic color schemes. It is bright and airy, thanks to the great wall of windows overlooking Central Park. Other than that, meh. No warmth. Lots of white and very museum-y. Some people might like it, but it's not my thing, and we didn't have the benefit of window seating.<br />
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Capitalizing on its captive and hungry audience, this place zaps its clientele's wallets for the meals. A Croque Monsieur is around $18. Looked good. I saw a lot of them go by. But is a ham and cheese sandwich worth $18? Yeah, I know. It's New York. Whatever. <br />
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Immersed in this haughty atmosphere, I adopted the "When in Rome" mindset and ordered Traditional High Tea ($24). <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ae33aJ_Zjo/Tj1RaJF9c2I/AAAAAAAAAXE/HchMwjZmPhw/s1600/New+York5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ae33aJ_Zjo/Tj1RaJF9c2I/AAAAAAAAAXE/HchMwjZmPhw/s400/New+York5.jpg" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At High Tea, I had high hopes for the scones (top). Read on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The cinnamon spice tea was very nice; the little sandwiches - egg salad, a mini-croque monsieur (missing from photo because I grabbed that first), cucumber, and chicken salad (I think, I can't remember) - were fine bites, as were the dessert petits fours and raspberry tartlet. The poppy seed cake stood out in flavor and texture. I could have consumed a very large piece.<br />
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So much for the positive. The rolls before the meal were terrible. I had never seen people salt their bread until this day, when I witnessed two patrons nearby take the salt shaker and do just that. I was amazed when I saw the first person do it and astounded by the second. This city is loaded with some of the best bakeries on the planet, so Petrie Court has no excuse for serving dry, stale-tasting rolls. To make matters worse, the butter was served almost frozen, which prompted me to thaw the paper-wrapped pats under my hot tea cup to make it the least bit spreadable. Yup, reminded me of hotel conference food.<br />
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Here's the topper, not only on my list of criticisms but also on my tea presentation: the scones. If you read my blog, you know I am a biscuit nut. I make them. I eat them. I am obsessed with them. Seeing the pretty scones perched atop the tea service at other tables cinched my order for traditional tea. I was in New York City and I figured these scones had to be good. These were not scones. These were an embarrassment. I can't even describe to you my disappointment, except to tell you that I started laughing as I tried to cut one in half and this is what happened:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4cKEPDIgj20/Tj1Abp1pXaI/AAAAAAAAAW8/x-0UW6GnOi4/s1600/New+York4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4cKEPDIgj20/Tj1Abp1pXaI/AAAAAAAAAW8/x-0UW6GnOi4/s400/New+York4.jpg" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To call them hockey pucks would be complimentary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
Hubmeister was still hungry after scarfing his entree salad topped with chicken, so he actually ate the scone fragments that exploded across the table. That should also tell you something about portion size. <br />
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FYI - The bill was $71 (including tax and tip) for the tea service, a salad and a beer. For that price, I expect an exceptional lunch. It was not. We should have checked out the food trucks outside the museum and grabbed a quick bite on the steps.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Tourist trap. Never travel without protein bars.<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/dining/petrie_menu">http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/dining/petrie_menu</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/1468389/restaurant/Upper-East-Side/Petrie-Court-Cafe-and-Wine-Bar-New-York"><img alt="Petrie Court Cafe and Wine Bar on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1468389/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-74873274638206836462011-07-31T11:58:00.040-04:002011-08-06T13:11:51.564-04:00The Big Apple Bites: EatalyWhere do I begin<br />
To tell the story of how great the food can be, <br />
The sweet love story that is older than the sea,<br />
The simple truth about the weight it put on me...<br />
Where do I start?<br />
<br />
Forget the first hello! How about with last weekend's trip to New York City and the 4 pounds I piled on. <br />
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Daughtress is interning in Manhattan this summer and Hubmeister and I decided to swoop down on her for a visit. Hubs grew up on Long Island and I had been to NYC on a few occasions, so it wasn't virgin territory. What was new to us was vacationing in triple-digit temperatures. I don't know why I packed any makeup because it melted off my face. Leave it to us to leave an area known for sweltering temps for one that is even hotter. But the food (and seeing the lovely Daughtress, of course) were worth it. Here's a taste of one our dining excursions...<br />
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<strong>Eataly</strong><br />
I posted about this Mario Batali-backed food emporium last year when it opened. The concept seems to have taken off because this place is a friggin' Italian madhouse.<br />
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Picture a grand food court. Noisy atmosphere. Crush of people. It's a scene you would expect to find at noon in most malls in America during the Christmas shopping season. The difference here is that the coffee shop features Lavazza, not Starbucks; the frozen treats are gelato, not ice cream; the baked goods are cannolis, not tollhouse cookies; and the food looks really topnotch, not like greasy mall grub. <br />
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Interspersed with counter-service offerings are several sit-down Italian restaurants, many with bar seating overlooking the cooking areas, and each featuring a specialty such as seafood, pasta, pizza, vegetables, meat, you name it. <br />
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The dining setup is confusing to the uninitiated, due in part to the lack of defined space for each restaurant, creating a free-for-all atmosphere. The absence of enclosed spaces, and no clear directions about where to go or what to do to get a table, produce an air of chaos and confusion. We wandered around and saw what looked like a hostess station at one of the eateries, so we figured we weren't supposed to plop down at any open table. But we did see several other folks committing this faux pas, totally unaware of it until they were asked to remove their keisters from the recycled plastic chairs and put their names in at the appropriate hostess station. Embarrassing. As we dined, people were stumbling haphazardly into the restaurant space, with one brazen lady approaching our table and asking to see my menu. What the heck! Did she think she was in Fort Lauderdale? <br />
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After we checked in with a not-so-friendly hostess, whose greeting consisted of "name, how many?", we waited an hour for a table. If you like roaming around with huge crowds of people, you won't mind the fact that there are no waiting areas. By chance, we happened upon a few chairs stacked near a window and tried to remain inconspicuous sitting beside a group of extra highchairs.<br />
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While I am "loathing," here's another bugaboo: The hostess doesn't call your name when a table is ready or give you a buzzer -- she tells you to keep checking in with her. This procedure is totally stupid and a royal pain, especially when the line at the hostess stand is always 15-people deep and pushing your way through the sweat-drenched masses is not on Frommer's list of Top Ten Things to Do in New York City.<br />
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Okay, enough about the atmosphere and operational snafus. You know not to expect cushy environs or serenity. The food, however, was worth these annoyances. (Read: You must be a foodie to put up with this crap.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gEOpRcHGM5I/TjVwsEP-PeI/AAAAAAAAAW4/Cg7jUmNo17g/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="343px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gEOpRcHGM5I/TjVwsEP-PeI/AAAAAAAAAW4/Cg7jUmNo17g/s400/018.JPG" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></div><br />
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We chose the pizza and pasta eatery, where I saw Neapolitan pizzas (go elsewhere if you are looking for Brooklyn-style New York pizzas) landing on tables right and left. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGbbNSQv4A8/TjVsoaOu12I/AAAAAAAAAWw/uBJnYdIicO0/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGbbNSQv4A8/TjVsoaOu12I/AAAAAAAAAWw/uBJnYdIicO0/s400/016.JPG" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></div><br />
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If Mario and partners Lidia and Joe Bastianich are putting their stamps of approval on the pizza recipes, you know they've got to be good. And mine was. Simple and satisfying, the Pizza Margherita had a crispy crust and no trace of sogginess. The few quality ingredients -- tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil and dough -- gelled harmoniously, none overpowering the others. Fresh and simple ingredients topped the thin and delightfully blistered crust. The only herb in this pizza was a sprig of fresh basil, and the pie was absolutely delicious. My minor criticism is evident in the photo below, which screams, "More cheese, please!"<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I10n7OmDLZk/TjVsdbwWklI/AAAAAAAAAWo/gV_rrI4izJ8/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I10n7OmDLZk/TjVsdbwWklI/AAAAAAAAAWo/gV_rrI4izJ8/s400/021.JPG" t$="true" width="400px" /></a></div><br />
Daughtress and Hubmeister both ordered a pasta dish of ravioli stuffed with meat, then tossed with butter. You could really taste the veal in this dish and appreciate the freshness of the handmade pasta, which came in the shape of petite squares. The waiter indicated menu items that featured homemade pasta because not all dishes do. Portions were adequate -- not overwhelming -- and my dining companions had no trouble downing slices of my pizza while cleaning their own plates.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The only accompaniment with our orders was a basket of fabulous Italian bread and plain olive oil for dipping. Again, simple and flavorful. You don't need to add a ton of seasonings to good olive oil. This Italian oil was fruity and tasty enough to stand on its own. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sjWLQFAUSuM/TjVsjFndQ5I/AAAAAAAAAWs/kcg0jInC5iA/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sjWLQFAUSuM/TjVsjFndQ5I/AAAAAAAAAWs/kcg0jInC5iA/s320/017.JPG" t$="true" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
A limited beer and wine list is available, so Daughtress enjoyed a glass of Italian pinot grigio while Hubs and I swigged refreshing Morettis. Prices ranged between $10 and $20 for our entrees.<br />
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After watching Mario for years on TV talking about the peasant food of Italy and the simplicity inherent in Italian cooking, I feel I was able to appreciate his philosophy first-hand. <br />
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Here's a tip if you hate crowds but still want to try the food at Eataly: Buy a takeout panini or some fresh bread, cheese and cured meats, and head across the street to Madison Square Park. Hubmeister and I enjoyed this nice little park after our meal. Ahh...serenity now!<br />
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<a href="http://eatalyny.com/">http://eatalyny.com/</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/3/1546475/restaurant/Gramercy-Flatiron/Eataly-New-York"><img alt="Eataly on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1546475/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-62924493957887842152011-07-20T09:54:00.001-04:002011-08-01T09:30:56.929-04:00Ft. Lauderdale Grub NotesHave you noticed my absence? I have a paid writing gig that's taken me away from my Food and Loathing habit. I'll still be posting, though, because I love to throw around my opinion...<br />
<br />
Which brings me to a couple nights I recently spent visiting the Oldsters, a.k.a. my parents, in what I like to call Ft. Liquordale. As usual, I was lax in my picture taking. I am trying to stick to the New Year's take-more-photos resolution, but we all know how that goes. So, here is a quick rundown (sans photos - sorry!) of my dining adventures in the old stomping grounds of my youth.<br />
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<strong>LaSpada's</strong><br />
The sign out front of this Lauderdale-by-the-Sea location indicates the owner's Philly origin, but around these parts, the subs are all homegrown. This itty-bitty place is packed on a daily basis and why is a no-brainer: The subs are amazing. <br />
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Why anyone would order anything other than the Italian Special is beyond me, but the menu offers numerous sandwich options. The fresh-tasting bread is chewy yet soft and the cold cuts are cut to order. No pre-sliced junk here. <br />
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As you wait in the snaking line at the counter, you will actually be treated to a slice-and-toss show the likes of which you have never seen. One guy slices all the meats and literally throws the stack of cold cuts down the line, aiming for the roll that will house them. I saw him land a few. Random misses are caught by the sandwich maker and slapped into place, then topped by cheese of choice, lettuce, tomato, onions, and sweet and hot peppers, and then topped again by more meat. That added meat is a nifty way to hold everything in. Oil, vinegar and a sprinkle of oregano dress the Italian Special, but choose mayo or mustard if you must. <br />
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Subs come in two sizes: 6 or 12 inches. Yes, I went for the mondo size and made it through about 10 inches worth before caving. Twelve-inchers are about $10 and worth every cent. These subs are well-known throughout the city and for good reason. <br />
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A word of advice: Go a little before noon to beat the crowd and be prepared to yell your order over the hoard of bikini-clad and business-attired sub lovers. Takeout only.<br />
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<a href="http://www.laspadashoagies.com/">http://www.laspadashoagies.com/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/12/1510239/restaurant/Miami/Lauderdale-by-the-Sea/LaSpadas-Original-Hoagies-Lauderdale-By-the-Sea"><img alt="LaSpada's Original Hoagies on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1510239/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>J. Mark's</strong><br />
With a couple of locations, one in Lauderdale and one in Pompano, J. Mark's is popular with the locals. The Oldsters love it because Mom can sit comfortably in a booth and order gigantic hunks of red meat that she never finishes and ultimately takes home. Most of the time she hones in on the Fred Flintstone prime rib (which is something you don't see on a lot of menus these days -- this restaurant serves it on specific nights) but this time she went for a variation of the theme: Prime Rib Sliders. <br />
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Mom reads a million newspapers a day and she was well-aware that J. Mark's had just won the award for best sliders in the city, an accolade proudly proclaimed by the waitress as she nodded approvingly while taking Mom's order. Dad, whom I believe is responsible for Sister Foodie's and my adventuresome spirits when it comes to dining (thanks to our childhood flashbacks of him devouring steak tartare and raw ground beef), ordered the Ahi Tuna appetizer for his entree. He recommended the Ahi Tuna at J. Mark's, so that's what I got, but in entree form. <br />
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Before I get to the mains, however, I have to tell you about the weird appetizer. They were egg rolls with a Mexican twist, loaded with avocado and cilantro. The menu states the ingredients also include red onions and sun-dried tomatoes, but I don't remember them. This appetizer ($10.99), which Dad ordered for the table to share, was Mom's idea, and if you knew my mother, you'd know she would loathe this starter. She pictured traditional Chinese egg rolls. As expected, she hated them. Dad and I ate them but one still remained when the waitress removed the plate. Bad sign. I don't think Mexican flavors pair well with egg roll wrappers. Perhaps this appetizer explains why you never see Mexican-Chinese fusion cuisine.<br />
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The Ahi Tuna ($24.99), on the other hand, was mouth-watering. Prepared with a perfect sear on the outside and retaining a cool pink center, the tuna had a really flavorful, crispy-peppery crust. <br />
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Dad's tuna appetizer ($13.99) was picturesque and offered a lovely portion if you had pigged out earlier in the day on a 12-inch LaSpada's sub. His tuna was accented with wasabi pesto and the plate included pickled cucumbers and a Soba Peanut Noodle Salad.<br />
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Mom savored those award-winning sliders ($12.99) and, yes, took most of them home. Smeared with horseradish and basil pesto, they were served au jus and came with sweet potato fries. Those fries looked good to me, but Mom is a traditionalist who likes her fries white, not orange. She will remember to specify her preference for Russets next time.<br />
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With its warm, all-wood decor, ice-cold beer, and dependable food and service, J.Mark's is an understandable local favorite.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jmarksrestaurant.com/menu.html">http://www.jmarksrestaurant.com/menu.html</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/12/1348665/restaurant/Miami/J-Marks-Pompano-Beach"><img alt="J. Mark's on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1348665/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<strong>Aruba Beach Cafe</strong><br />
Talk about a location! I can't believe I had never been to Aruba when the Oldsters live only a couple blocks from it. Aruba is located smack-dab on the beach beside the pier at A1A and Commercial Blvd. We had a clear view out the walls of windows of gently rolling waves and all the lively sights of Lauderdale's beach. I highly recommend this spot for heterosexual men because the ladies out there sunbathing had spent some serious time at the gym and they were letting everybody know it. Thankfully, I was spared the stomach-churning vision of men in thongs because that would have killed my appetite.<br />
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Aruba has three massive bars inside one huge restaurant, and the joint was jumpin' as Mom, Dad, our friend The Professor, and I wove our way around the bars and through the tropical, Caribbean-themed dining rooms to our awesome table.<br />
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Mom ordered the Pulled Pork Sandwich and Dad got a Cold Seafood Platter, both specials of the day. The Professor selected the Lobster Salad Sandwich and I got a Blackened Mahi Mahi Sandwich.<br />
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Mom and Dad were very happy with their selections. Dad's plate offered crab legs, shrimp, oysters and a variety of dipping sauces. My Mahi Mahi was grilled with Cajun spices, served on a good bun and complemented by a tasty tartar sauce that I used as a dipper for my fries. Although the fries weren't homemade, their crunchy seasoned coating made them irresistible.<br />
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The least impressive dish at this oceanfront lunch fest was the Lobster Salad Sandwich. It tasted fishy, the lobster was pulverized, and it was sandwiched between three pieces of supermarket-variety whole wheat bread. The restaurant advertises this as Bimini Bread, which they say they make daily. What? I will pass. The Professor gave me half her lobster sandwich, I gave her half my fish sandwich and it's clear which dish was the winner.<br />
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Service was memorable; we had a fun older waitress who constantly brought me fresh cups of coffee. She clearly enjoyed her job, and that enthusiasm is seldom seen in restaurants these days -- at least in my travels.<br />
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Sister Foodie says the food at Aruba has always been mediocre. Considering this city's endless dining choices, I don't think I would invest in dinner at Aruba, but lunch and/or drinks are worth it just for the atmosphere. <br />
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Oh, and if you were there during my visit, you would have seen my mother trying to pocket the coffee creamers. Dad pulled her away from the table just in the knick of time. She has lived in South Florida far too long.<br />
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<a href="http://www.arubabeachcafe.com/home.htm">http://www.arubabeachcafe.com/home.htm</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/12/150242/restaurant/Miami/Lauderdale-by-the-Sea/Aruba-Beach-Cafe-Lauderdale-By-the-Sea"><img alt="Aruba Beach Cafe on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/150242/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-80654233556183076942011-06-11T18:29:00.000-04:002011-06-11T18:29:00.795-04:00Weighing in on "Top Chef Masters"If you've been watching "Top Chef Masters," you recently saw Chef Hugh Acheson voted off. Actually, it was the second time this season he got the boot. In a strange turn of events, one of the other chefs dropped out of the competition and Chef Hugh returned to redeem himself from the mortal sin of oversalting. He was doing pretty well until he committed another whopper in "chefdom" -- a broken mayonnaise. Although Chef Hugh disputed the criticism, he was given the "pack your knives and go" directive. <br />
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It's too bad the chef never got to make Frogmore Stew or the pumpkin dessert that Son of Hubmeister and I fought over at his Athens, Ga., restaurant. <br />
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I warmed to Acheson as I watched this season unfold and he revealed with each episode more of his quirky personality. His dry sense of humor brought some levity to an otherwise boring group of chefs. His recent sarcastic exchanges with the scientist on the science education challenge were especially entertaining. <br />
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If you read my post about his award-winning restaurant, Five & Ten (<a href="http://foodandloathingintampabay.blogspot.com/2010/10/eating-up-athens-five-ten.html">http://foodandloathingintampabay.blogspot.com/2010/10/eating-up-athens-five-ten.html</a>), you'll now understand that placing that Chaines des Rotisseurs membership certificate near a toilet doesn't seem that out of character. I suspected an off-the-wall sense of humor. Sorry to see him go. <br />
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Here's a link to an Atlanta Journal-Constitution interview with him about the show: <a href="http://blogs.ajc.com/food-and-more/2011/06/08/catching-up-with-hugh-acheson/">http://blogs.ajc.com/food-and-more/2011/06/08/catching-up-with-hugh-acheson/</a> If you read the comments section, you'll see that not everyone shares my humble opinion. What do you think?Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-33770407667736758482011-06-10T17:34:00.003-04:002011-06-11T08:12:54.378-04:00Takin' It to the Ybor Streets: The BricksDaughtress was in town last week, which meant a trip to Ybor. As luck would have it, the Ybor location of Urban Outfitters was closing and having a message-all-your-friends-on-Facebook-worthy sale. Her timing was impeccable. I knew she'd approve of The Bricks, so that's where we headed for a post-shopping lunch.<br />
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I really like The Bricks and she did, too. On the road to AARP membership before I can slam on the brakes, I realize that I am not the intended audience for this trendy college-type hangout, but I am inexplicably drawn to its youthful vitality. The tatted-up, weirdly pierced servers and their crazy hairstyles amuse me while I marvel at the colorful artwork (for sale) gracing the walls. I don't understand any of it, but I get a kick out of it. I also appreciate the year-round display of Halloween props and how the staff decorates the vampire and skeleton mascots according to the season. Humor is good.<br />
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That could be why this was my second lunch outing at The Bricks. Hubs and I tried it a few months back. He wasn't thrilled, since he's more of a Tampa Bay Brewing Company kind of guy. That's not to say The Bricks doesn't have beer. This place morphs into a bar scene at night. But before the vampires and Ybor City night stalkers come out, it's a coffee shop, breakfast and lunch venue that occupies a red-bricked corner space on the west end of East 7th Avenue. <br />
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Passing on the peanut butter and jelly offerings for which they are known, I opted for the Blackstar Bean Burger ($9) and Asian slaw. On first bite, the burger was less than exciting, but once I got going on it, it really hit the spot. The bean patty was topped with smoked mozzarella, spinach, tomato, red onion and ketchup. The amped-up ketchup imparted a sweet heat and played nicely with the other elements. The more I ate, the more the heat came through. You've really got to pump up the flavors to electrify vegetarian dishes and The Bricks did an admirable job with this beaner. <br />
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The slaw was particularly memorable -- in a good way. As I contemplate the dressing ingredients, I venture a guess that a splash of sesame oil is one of the key components, along with vinegar, of course. The no-mayo-added slaw consisted of shredded carrot and red and green cabbage, all of which were fresh, crunchy and infused with Asian flavors. It was delicious on both visits. <br />
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Daughtress ordered the Bird and Pig ($9), a combination of roasted chicken, bacon, brie, sliced apple and agave nectar on pressed Hawaiian bread. You've never had agave nectar on a sandwich before? Me, neither. The Bricks gets a hat tip for innovation. There is some smart stuff going on here: Notice the sweet and salty balance -- in addition to the alternating textures -- of ingredients. The apples were tart and crunchy, the brie soft and oozing, the bacon salty, the nectar honey-ish and the sweet bread pressed to a warm crisp. All that adds up to an intriguing and tasty chicken sandwich. We all know how boring chicken breast can be and this was far from bland. Hubmeister happened to order this sandwich on his visit and he also sang its praises. He likes that Hawaiian bread!<br />
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From the available sides of potato salad, mixed greens, slaw or tortilla chips, Daughtress also selected the Asian slaw. It made the cut with her, too. We also loved the peach ginger iced tea.<br />
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We had a couple of servers, and both were efficient, friendly and stylistically unique. (Insert smile here.)<br />
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I am happy that Ybor City is emerging as a restaurant hotbed because this little corner of Spanish-Cuban-Italian history is by far my favorite slice of Tampa.<br />
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Maybe the old spirits of Cigar City are inspiring The Bricks' mad scientists. It's clear they aren't afraid to experiment with their food and I am more than willing to visit their laid-back lab de cuisine. Where else in Tampa can you find "The Amsterdam, " a sandwich of peanut butter and melted smoked Gouda on a baguette?<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Fun choice for the open-minded hipster, oops, I mean diner.<br />
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<strong>Restaurant Info:</strong><br />
The Bricks<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/thebricksybor">http://www.facebook.com/thebricksybor</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1533510/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Ybor-City/The-Bricks-of-Ybor-Tampa"><img alt="The Bricks of Ybor on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1533510/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-64329571855043239582011-06-09T19:59:00.000-04:002011-06-09T19:59:51.451-04:00Pucker Up for PicklesI just noticed that I've recently had a flurry of activity on my "In a Pickle Over Pickles" post from last year (<a href="http://foodandloathingintampabay.blogspot.com/2010/08/pickle-post.html">http://foodandloathingintampabay.blogspot.com/2010/08/pickle-post.html</a>) , and I realized that I never told you how they turned out. Well, the most critical people I know, and probably the most critical people most of us know -- our own extended families -- said they were awesome! Yup, they want more. No one could be more surprised than I.<br />
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So, when you see those kirby cukes, buy them up and make a batch of pickles. I also can't say enough about the pickyourown.org website. Everybody loves the jams (in addition to the pickles) that I have made off of this website, and believe me, I am no canning expert. <br />
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And, on the subject of canning, heads up on the $1.39/pint blueberries at Aldi this week. Get them while you can. You know what I'll be doing this weekend. Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-66851166367605634262011-05-28T17:58:00.000-04:002011-05-28T17:58:49.647-04:00Sampling Tampa Thai: SukhothaiDuring the last four years in Tampa, I have dined at more than a half-dozen Thai restaurants and one Asian restaurant claiming to serve Thai specialties. More sampling is on the horizon but I am getting antsy. None can compare to our favorite restaurant in Peachtree City, Ga.: Thai Spice. <br />
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Now, Peachtree City is just about the most ideal place you could raise a family or retire but it has a few - mind you, just a few - drawbacks, one being a lack of good restaurants (another is the 45-minute commute to Atlanta). But it did have at least one reliable dining establishment in the always tasteful, sophisticated and satisfying Thai Spice.<br />
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Where, oh where is my Thai Spice in Tampa? I am still searching for something other than an Epcot version of Thailand - restaurants brandishing gilded Buddhas and ornate decor. Just give me that runny-nose-inducing, wickedly spicy Thai food, serve it carefully plated in a serene, white-tablecloth setting and play contemporary, easy-listening music softly in the background. Throw in some decent service, an icy cold Singha, and ta-da! <br />
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Easier said than done, I guess.<br />
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In the food realm, my demands were met a couple weekends ago when I convinced Hubmeister to give <strong>Sukhothai</strong> another shot. It's the first time in Tampa that the spice level has been exactly as I ordered, a tongue-tingling medium to hot. Judging a person's tolerance or craving for heat is a daunting task, since a little bit of this or not enough of that can screw up the guest's whole experience of a dish. That's what happened to Hubmeister, but I'll get to that. <br />
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Let's talk about the Chicken Massaman ($12.99), the best bay-area Thai dish that I've had to date. It featured a nice ratio of sliced chicken to mixed vegetables cradled in an addictive coconut cream and curry peanut sauce, a pretty straightforward curry creation. Richly flavored, this dish was seasoned well and cooked properly. Its sidekick was brown or white rice (I chose brown), which I used to absorb every last bit of that fabulous creamy sauce.<br />
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Poor Hubs! His bland-loving taste sensors went berserk when his Chicken Pad Thai ($12.50) arrived. Although I couldn't detect any heat, he swears this classic Thai noodle dish was too spicy for him. He ordered it mild and left most of it on his plate; I relished the "peanutty" leftovers the next day. Is there a hold-the-spice order at a Thai restaurant? I have a feeling you get laughed out of the kitchen with that one.<br />
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Backtracking to the beginning of the meal, we started with Thai Spring Rolls ($3.99). They were huge, burrito-sized beauties accompanied by a sweet dipping sauce. The dipping sauce didn't live up to the sweet-hot Thai Spice standard but the veggie-stuffed rolls were crispy and impressive.<br />
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So, the food - at least for me - hit most of the right notes. <br />
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Here's the rub: we hated the atmosphere. Once you find the restaurant in its off-the-beaten-path, behind-a-shopping-center location, you may choose seating at the sushi bar or a standard table, or you can sit Japanese-style on the floor. Both times we've dined here we have opted for a table, but the floor seating area, which is isolated from the kitchen and sushi bar, seems like it might be more quiet and relaxing. Hubs isn't one who likes to sit on the floor. The tables with chairs are directly opposite the sushi bar and its television - I am starting to hate televisions in restaurants - and you hear every conversation nearby. (Excuse me, my New York friends, I don't care to hear your loud stories about life on Long Island. If I want to hear about Long Island, I can ask Hubs and he prefers to black it out.) Maybe they should crank up the music in this place. It also felt a bit claustrophobic, as our server snaked awkwardly around tables. <br />
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The food may have surpassed other Tampa Thai cuisine, but the plating was average. Don't expect orchids or beautifully placed edible flowers. Although I appreciated the absence of brassy accents, the noisy environment could use some window dressing. <br />
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I noticed lots of takeout orders awaiting pickup at the register and that's how I plan to get my future Sukhothai meals, at least at this location. I have yet to try the Sukhothai on Dale Mabry. Stay tuned.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Hits the mark for food but misses on atmosphere.<br />
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<strong>Restaurant Info:</strong><br />
Sukhothai<br />
<a href="http://www.sukhothairestaurant.net/files/color-menu.pdf">http://www.sukhothairestaurant.net/files/color-menu.pdf</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/345037/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/New-Tampa/Sukhothai-Tampa"><img alt="Sukhothai on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/345037/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-33499139863520138272011-05-18T16:58:00.005-04:002011-05-18T17:08:18.822-04:00Sumatra: A Brandon Bistro?Sorry for the question, but we spent five months in Brandon when we first landed in this part of the state in 1990, and the most sophisticated eatery there was Olive Garden. While the town is still a chain-lover's dream, a smattering of independent restaurateurs is attempting to break new ground.<br />
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A case in point is Sumatra Bistro Cafe & Bakery, which occupies a corner space of a building located east of Lakewood Drive, off Oakfield Drive. Once I found the place, which, approaching from the west, has terrible visibility and a dysfunctional parking lot, I joined the Mississippi Maven at an outside table on a spiffy spring day. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8r17J8XaYE/TdPhDpIMKQI/AAAAAAAAAWk/Wain_xpGeYY/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300px" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8r17J8XaYE/TdPhDpIMKQI/AAAAAAAAAWk/Wain_xpGeYY/s400/006.JPG" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sumatra's patio is a plus, but server access was a problem during our visit.</td></tr>
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Although I have my share of beefs with Brandon, this sprawling bedroom community has managed to retain a vestige of small-town folksiness, and we were greeted with enthusiastic hellos and a smiling staff. The level of professionalism ended there, however, as I received the wrong meal and servers busing open-air tables tried futilely to enter the restaurant bearing armloads of dishes. Patio diners politely offered to open the door for the plate jugglers - which begs the question, why not prop open the door? I could take a trip down Snarky Lane, but I'll forge ahead to the food.<br />
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Reminiscent of Season's Fresh (see recent post), Sumatra is following an emerging trend: a focus on fresh, organic and locally grown ingredients featured in salads, paninis, wraps and sandwiches. Gourmet coffee, tea, and baked goods complete the cafe-bistro profile. <br />
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Since the Trib gave Sumatra an enthusiastic review, I guess I expected more substance and creativity. I ordered a cup of Tomato Basil Bisque and an Eggplant and Mozzarella Sandwich. What I mistakenly received was hard-boiled egg and cucumber served on a Pepperidge Farm deli flat. Rather than remove the dish and correct the order, the server said the chef must have misunderstood her "egg" instructions. I didn't want to hold up the Maven's meal by requesting a new sandwich, so I simply ate what was before me, which certainly was no guilty pleasure. In fact, it was quite diet-friendly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCCLqE7VlXc/TdPg5viFJcI/AAAAAAAAAWc/8hB-63ptjTE/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="253px" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCCLqE7VlXc/TdPg5viFJcI/AAAAAAAAAWc/8hB-63ptjTE/s400/003.JPG" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weight watchers, rejoice!</td></tr>
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Deli flat. Cucumber. Egg. Need I say more? The high note was the fresh-tasting soup, rich with tomato and nicely infused with basil. I would also recommend the coffee, which the server said was - you guessed it - Sumatran. <br />
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The Maven had a Chicken Caesar Wrap, which she uncharacteristically remained mum about throughout the meal. Both entrees were accompanied by a handful of mixed greens, some carrot shavings, a few cheese crumbles and a side of ordinary house vinaigrette. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igcImPvqgSY/TdPg9k4I-_I/AAAAAAAAAWg/jYmy8gm58to/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="341px" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igcImPvqgSY/TdPg9k4I-_I/AAAAAAAAAWg/jYmy8gm58to/s400/005.JPG" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The word verdant comes to mind.</td></tr>
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</div>When I asked her in the parking lot what she thought of the place, the Maven shrugged and said we've had better lunches. She's right. We both could have made any of this stuff at home.<br />
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Sumatra Bistro serves breakfast and lunch, and stocks a bakery case full of treats. The hours posted on the website vary depending on the day, so consult before you go. <br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: So-so bistro.<br />
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<strong>Restaurant</strong> <strong>Info</strong>:<br />
Sumatra Bistro Cafe and Bakery<br />
1602 Oakfield Drive<br />
Brandon<br />
813-655-6200<br />
<a href="http://www.sumatrabistro.com/menu/">http://www.sumatrabistro.com/menu/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/1509955/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Brandon-Valrico/Sumatra-Bistro-Cafe-Bakery-Brandon"><img alt="Sumatra Bistro Café & Bakery on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1509955/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7562483116877863037.post-66095014485318051522011-05-13T16:15:00.008-04:002011-05-13T16:24:24.981-04:00El Puerto: Primo Latin FareFlying below the Tampa radar on Ybor City's 5th Avenue, El Puerto Restaurant goes about its business serving up some of the finest Latin cuisine in town. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The corner of 5th and 17th, now on my list of favorite places.</td></tr>
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This spot is another example of a solid Tampa restaurant that gets lost in the foodie buzz created by new kids on the culinary block. That is the only reason I can come up with to explain why I have missed it. I should say <strong><em>missed</em></strong> <strong><em>out</em></strong> on it because this is one good restaurant - in all respects.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2QWuUK4yKbg/Tcq_MO7W1kI/AAAAAAAAAWM/ZfbWisZ6Ekg/s1600/photo%255B1%255D+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311px" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2QWuUK4yKbg/Tcq_MO7W1kI/AAAAAAAAAWM/ZfbWisZ6Ekg/s400/photo%255B1%255D+%25283%2529.JPG" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimp guaranteed to make your taste buds tango.</td></tr>
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On a recent lunch visit, I savored the best shrimp dish I have experienced in ages. Picante de Camarones ($13, available for lunch but listed on the dinner menu) consisted of eight or nine perfectly sauteed colossal fresh shrimp swimming in a spicy orange-colored cream sauce. I could have eaten eight more. They were far superior in taste and size to the shrimp that I recently had in a shrimp and grits dish at the much-ballyhooed Datz - and these were more plentiful and less expensive. <br />
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Two sides are offered with each entree and I selected maduros (sweet plantains) and a house salad. Other choices included white or yellow rice, black beans, tostones and fried cassava. The soft, caramelized plantains were a sweet complement to the giant, peppery shrimp. Although the house salad, which consisted of iceberg lettuce, fresh sliced tomato and wilted red onion, was fine, I hated to see that incredible creamy shrimp sauce go to waste. I should have ordered rice or another starchy carb to sop it all up. The warm, yeasty dinner rolls would have done the trick, but I resisted the temptation to scarf down a second.<br />
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True to her Brazilian roots, Blame It on Rio zeroed in on the meat. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v1Z78zn45QQ/Tcq_S9MfPGI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/EhilijqR4IU/s1600/photo%255B2%255D+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265px" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v1Z78zn45QQ/Tcq_S9MfPGI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/EhilijqR4IU/s400/photo%255B2%255D+%25282%2529.JPG" width="400px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The juices were flowing as Rio dove into that Grilled Churrasco.</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Her medium-rare skirt steak ($12) blanketed the plate. The family-sized portion was tender and juicy, made even more flavorful by the condiments sitting on the table - a mustard-colored hot sauce and an herbaceous chimichurri. The yellow aji sauce was thrillingly hot. I witnessed the guilty red pepper flakes but I suspect some other fiery culprits contributed heat, too. The green chimichurri sauce, however, was our preference; it yielded an agreeable sweetness that partnered well with the beef. </div><br />
Rio's sides were fried cassava (yucca) and yellow rice. This was my first foray into yucca territory. It reminded me of potato and this preparation resembled french fries in both taste and texture. <br />
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Due to the impressive lunch crowd - predominately business folks - we dined at the bar. A muted flat-screen television flickered with CNN talking heads, while pleasant Latin music played in the background. Enhancing the tropical Argentinean-Peruvian vibe were exotic hand-painted murals and abundant sunlight streaming through the eatery's many windows. I loved the breezy Latin atmosphere and the smiling servers who happily translated menu items and stopped by numerous times to refill our tea. <br />
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Set in an understated brick building that fuses with the rest of the neighborhood, this place is easy to overlook. But with its white tablecloths, cool Ybor setting, cheerful service and excellent food, El Puerto is a sparkling diamond in a land rife with cubic zirconias.<br />
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<strong>Verdict</strong>: Affordable gem.<br />
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<strong>Restaurant</strong> <strong>Info</strong>:<br />
El Puerto Restaurant and Grill<br />
1623 E. 5th Avenue<br />
Tampa<br />
813-248-8222<br />
<a href="http://www.elpuertoybor.com/menu.html">http://www.elpuertoybor.com/menu.html</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/30/341804/restaurant/Tampa-Bay/Ybor-City/El-Puerto-Argentinean-Grill-Tampa"><img alt="El Puerto Argentinean Grill on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/341804/biglink.gif" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Food and Loathinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03557427840288872552noreply@blogger.com2